What are cookies?

What are cookies? - An introduction

Cookies are an ever-present topic in the digital world. But what exactly are cookies and how do they affect your everyday life? Internet out of? We'll cover it in this comprehensive guide. Cookies are small text files that your web browser stores when you visit a website. These files contain information that can be used for various purposes, such as remembering your preferences or identifying you as a repeat user. Many people believe that cookies are harmful to them privacy or even viruses. However, that is a myth. Cookies are generally harmless text files and are not programs that can cause harm.

The practical uses of cookies

Cookies are not just simple text files; they also have useful functions. Let's take a closer look at these. One of the main reasons for using cookies is to improve the user experience. For example, cookies can ensure that your shopping carts in the online shop do not get lost. Online stores often use cookies to store the contents of your shopping cart. This means you can continue shopping at a later date without having to insert everything again.

Technically necessary vs. non-essential cookies

In the cookie landscape, it is important to distinguish between what is technically necessary and what is not Cookies must be distinguished because they play different roles and are also regulated differently become.

• Technically necessary cookies: These cookies are essential for the operation of a website. Without them, for example, saving products in the shopping cart of an online shop would not be possible. They are usually set automatically as soon as you visit a website and do not require explicit consent.
• Technically unnecessary cookies: These cookies often have marketing or tracking purposes. They are used, for example, to analyze users' surfing behavior or to display personalized advertising. In contrast to technically necessary cookies, many websites only set these types of cookies with your express consent.

Legal basis.

The legal framework, especially in the European Union through the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), is stricter for cookies that are not technically necessary. They usually require the express consent of the user and must be communicated transparently. This means that website operators must provide clear information about what types of cookies are used and for what purpose.

Concerns and recommendations for action when dealing with cookies

Cookies bring many benefits, such as storing login details or personalizing websites. However, there are concerns, particularly in the area of ​​data protection, that should be taken into account.

Third-party cookies, often set by advertising networks, can track your browsing behavior across different websites. This sets up potential data protection risk and requires conscious handling.

To ensure careful and conscious handling, there are various measures you can take:

• Checking browser settings: Most modern browsers allow you to set which types of cookies you want to allow or block. Regularly checking these settings can help protect your data protection.
• Use of special software: Although not strictly necessary, there are Software solutions that give you greater control over what is stored on your computer Enable cookies. These tools can be particularly useful if you want increased levels of privacy.

By combining these precautions, you can both take advantage of the benefits of cookies and better protect your privacy and data. It's ultimately a matter of personal comfort versus the level of privacy you want to maintain.

In summary It can be said that cookies have both positive and negative aspects. They can improve the online experience, but they can also cause privacy issues. While cookies can significantly improve the internet user experience, it is important to be aware of them and to manage your own cookie settings carefully.

Our advice is to take time to understand the different types of cookies and their settings. Also use special software to better protect your data. With this guide we hope to provide you with a comprehensive answer to the question “What are cookies simply explained?” to have given. Stay safe and surf smart!