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While surfing the internet you may already know this or a similar warning: "We use cookies on this website. By using this site, you agree that we may store and access cookies on your device." But what does it actually mean?
What is the use of cookies?
Cookies are used by more and more websites. Although most of user do not even know that they exist, when visiting a web site cookies help the site to distinguish individual users, store user preferences, etc.
How cookies work?
Cookies (like scone or biscuit) is a small packet of data, which - when visiting the website - are sent by server to the browser and stored on the user`s computer.
Everytime the user will visit the same website, the browser sends those data back to the server. Thanks to them, the server identifies the user and can adapt the website according to his preferences, previous behaviour on the site or adjust its setting.
Are cookies safe?
For a computer itself cookies pose no risk at all. But in terms of privacy the situation may be different.
In addition to information used to improve the user`s comfort also other information about the user can be written to cookies - interests of the user, frequency of his visits, behaviour, etc.
The operator of the site can then use these data without user`s knowledge for targeted advertising, statistics of behavior, etc. But it is also necessary to add, that today similar information is obtained by other tools than just cookies.
Is it possible to restrict the use of cookies?
The use of cookies is possible to prohibit or restrict in the browser settings. But it is necessary to proceed with caution - disabled cookies on some pages may cause decrease of their functionality and/or other undesirable limitations.
If you want to learn more or get deeper consultation about cookies, please do not hesitate to contact your IT administrator.
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