Cookies are ubiquitous on the internet, but should you allow them into your browsing experience? Cookie-consent pop-ups are one of the most vexing Internet annoyances. Almost every website you visit will display a notice that states, “This website uses cookies to improve your experience.” “Are you in agreement?” or something along those lines. We usually click “yes” or “agree” without thinking because we want to get to the content. Should we, however? No, not always. What are cookies, exactly? Before we get into the dos and don’ts of cookie consent, let’s review this Web tool: Cookies are essentially information collectors and trackers in the form of small text files that websites you visit store on your browser. Some are beneficial. A cookie saved on your browser, for example, prevents you from having to re-enter your log-in information every time you visit one of your favourite websites. Cookies can also remember your shopping preferences, allowing you to have a more personalised experience when visiting a website. Others, on the other hand, monitor how you use a website, how frequently you visit it, your IP address, your phone number, the kinds of things you look at and buy, and other information you may not want to share. Do you have to accept cookies? Many businesses require you to click “yes” in order to comply with current privacy laws. This means that by clicking, you’ve given the company permission to use your information as they see fit without fear of legal repercussions. Cookies are usually not a big deal. However, there are a few instances when you should decline cookies. Don’t worry—if you’re in a situation where you need to decline or simply want to decline for whatever reason, most websites will function normally without collecting your information. You should also learn how to clear cookies on your phone so that your information is secure, regardless of whether you accepted cookies on a site you shouldn’t have. With that said, here are some times when saying no to cookies is a good idea. Untrustworthy sites When using a public Wi-Fi network, be cautious if you are on an unencrypted website (these websites will have an unlocked lock icon next to the web address). Cookies’ information can be intercepted by hackers because there is no security to prevent it. When using public Wi-Fi from a coffee shop or fast-food restaurant, use your browser’s private or incognito mode. Cookies are not collected by default in this mode (though you can manually disable cookie blocking in some browsers), regardless of where your Internet journeys take you. You should also consider whether open Wi-Fi networks are safe. Third-party cookies Click “decline” if the cookie-consent pop-up mentions third-party cookies. Accepting grants the website permission to sell your browsing history to a data broker. The broker then combines your behaviour on one website with information from other websites to create an extremely detailed consumer profile. According to Harry Maugans, CEO of Privacy Bee, a proactive privacy management tool for consumers, “the broker then sells that profile to other third parties who want to market to people like you.” “As you can imagine, this chain goes on forever.” When you lose control of your personal information, it is packaged and repackaged in a variety of ways. It’s frightening, but it’s true.” Some third-party cookies, according to Maugans, are even malicious. You might fall victim to “cookie stealing” or “session hijacking.” This occurs when a hacker gains access to a browser and impersonates users in order to steal cookies from that browser. If hackers manage to steal cookies that store your personal information or credit card information, you may be at risk of identity theft. If you’re concerned that you might unintentionally accept third-party cookies, there’s a simple solution. Enter your browser settings and select “only required cookies” or “first party” cookies. These are the previously mentioned helpful cookies, and they are typically only used by the website you’re visiting. When you use personal information Don’t use cookies on a website if you don’t feel comfortable sharing the information you’re using or accessing with a stranger. According to Jeremy Tillman, president of the privacy firm Ghostery, you should avoid cookies on sites where you bank, access medical information, or use other private information. If you’re concerned that you’ve already accepted cookies on websites where you don’t want your information to be collected, go to your browser’s settings and select the “clear cookies” option. This will prevent future sites from collecting your information as long as you decline the next time a site asks you to accept its cookies. *Other Model Available RICOH MPC3503/MPC5503 RICOH MPC3504/MPC5504 Contact Us: 03-3341 6296 | 018-788 6296 | 018-228 6296
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