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What are tracking cookies?

by | Mar 21, 2025 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

What are tracking cookies:

  • Text files set by websites on users’ browsers to collect data
  • They gather information like clicks, shopping preferences, device details, location, and search history
  • Used for targeted advertising and website analytics

 

Types:

  • First-party cookies: Set by the website you’re visiting (e.g., Google Analytics cookies)
  • Third-party cookies: Created by external servers through code on websites (e.g., ads, social media plugins)

Privacy concerns:

  • While useful for personalization, tracking cookies raises privacy issues
  • They can collect extensive personal data over time
  • Major browsers (Safari, Firefox) already block third-party cookies; Chrome plans to phase them out by 2023

Regulations:

  • GDPR requires explicit user consent for cookies (except strictly necessary ones)
  • CCPA treats cookie data as personal information, requiring opt-out notices

How to block tracking cookies:

  • Use browser settings (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge)
  • Consider privacy-focused browsers like DuckDuckGo and Brave.
  • Enable the “Do Not Track” setting
  • Visit ad network websites to opt-out

 

For website owners:

  • Scan your site to identify all cookies
  • Implement proper consent mechanisms
  • Use tools like CookieYes to manage compliance
  • Auto-block third-party scripts until consent is given

How to Block Cookies

Here’s how to block cookies in major browsers:

Google Chrome

  1. Click the three dots in the top right corner
  2. Select “Settings”
  3. Navigate to “Privacy and security”
  4. Click “Cookies and other site data.”
  5. Choose your preferred setting:
    • Allow all cookies
    • Block third-party cookies
    • Block all cookies

Safari

Safari blocks third-party tracking cookies by default, but you can:

  1. Open Safari
  2. Select “Preferences” from the menu
  3. Click the “Privacy” tab
  4. Choose “Manage Website Data” to view and remove specific cookies
  5. Check “Block all cookies” for maximum protection

Firefox

Firefox blocks tracking cookies by default. For additional settings:

  1. Click the menu button (three lines) in the top right
  2. Select “Settings”
  3. Go to “Privacy & Security”
  4. Under “Enhanced Tracking Protection,” choose your preferred level

Microsoft Edge

  1. Click the three dots in the top right corner
  2. Select “Settings”
  3. Click “Cookies and Site Permissions”
  4. Select “Manage and delete cookies and site data.”
  5. Choose your preferred cookie settings

Alternative Options

  • Use privacy-focused browsers like DuckDuckGo, Brave, or Ghostery
  • Enable “Do Not Track” in your browser settings
  • Install privacy extensions like Privacy Badger
  • Visit ad network websites directly (like NAI Consumer Opt-Out) to opt out of their tracking.

How to Limit Third-Party Cookies

 

Third-party cookies are created by domains other than the one you’re visiting and are primarily used for tracking and advertising. Here’s how to limit them on different browsers:

Google Chrome

  1. Click the three dots in the top right corner
  2. Select “Settings”
  3. Go to “Privacy and security.”
  4. Click “Cookies and other site data.”
  5. Select “Block third-party cookies” or “Block third-party cookies in incognito.”

Safari

Safari already blocks third-party cookies by default, but you can verify:

  1. Open Safari
  2. Click “Safari” in the menu bar
  3. Select “Preferences”
  4. Go to the “Privacy” tab
  5. Ensure “Prevent cross-site tracking” is checked

Firefox

Firefox blocks third-party trackers by default with its Enhanced Tracking Protection:

  1. Click the menu button (three horizontal lines) in the top right
  2. Select “Settings”
  3. Go to “Privacy & Security”
  4. Under “Enhanced Tracking Protection,” choose “Standard” or “Strict.”

Microsoft Edge

  1. Click the three dots in the top right corner
  2. Select “Settings”
  3. Click “Cookies and site permissions.”
  4. Select “Manage and delete cookies and site dat.a”
  5. Toggle on “Block third-party cookies.”

Additional Measures

  • Use extensions like Privacy Badger or uBlock Origin for more granular control.
  • Consider enabling “Do Not Track” in your browser settings
  • Periodically clear your browser cookies and cache
  • For specific websites, you can use cookie consent banners to allow only necessary cookies.

Remember that limiting third-party cookies improves privacy but may affect some website functionality, particularly for sites that rely on third-party services for features like commenting or embedded content.

Maxthon

Maxthon private browser for online privacy

In the whirlwind of today’s online interactions, where the digital realm is in a constant state of flux, safeguarding oneself while navigating the internet has become increasingly vital. The choice of a web browser that prioritises security and privacy has never been more essential. Among the vast selection of browsers vying for attention, Maxthon Browser emerges as a remarkable contender, addressing these crucial concerns without charging its users a penny. This sophisticated browser is equipped with an impressive suite of built-in features, including an Adblocker and various anti-tracking tools—essential elements for enhancing your online privacy.

Maxthon private browser for online privacy

Maxthon has successfully established a distinct identity by focusing on crafting a browsing experience that values user safety and confidentiality above all else. With an unwavering commitment to protecting personal information and online activities from numerous potential threats, Maxthon employs a range of robust strategies designed to safeguard user data. By utilising advanced encryption techniques, this browser ensures that sensitive information remains confidential and secure throughout your digital excursions. 

When it comes to fortifying privacy during online endeavours, Maxthon truly excels. Every facet of the browser has been meticulously designed with a host of features aimed specifically at elevating your privacy. From its effective ad blockers to comprehensive anti-tracking capabilities and a dedicated incognito mode, these tools work seamlessly together to banish intrusive advertisements and thwart tracking scripts that could disrupt your online experience. As a result, users are free to traverse the internet with an enhanced sense of security. The incognito mode further amplifies this feeling of safety, allowing users to explore the web without leaving behind any digital breadcrumbs or traces on their devices. 

Maxthon’s unwavering commitment to user privacy and protection is reflected in its regular updates and continuous enhancements. This dedication to improving user experience not only showcases their resolve but also underscores their mission to create a secure online environment for all. As the digital landscape evolves, Maxthon remains a beacon of hope for those who prioritise their privacy and seek a safe harbour amidst the tumultuous seas of the internet. With each update and new feature, they reaffirm their promise to guard the sanctity of personal information, ensuring that users can navigate the vast expanse of the online world with confidence and peace of mind.