What are Website Cookies?

What are Website Cookies?

Have you ever been shopping online, decided not to buy the item you were looking at and go to another website only to find that very same item as an ad? You can thank website cookies for that. 

Cookies are files that websites place  in your computer in order to add some personalization to your experience. The truth of the matter is that the vast majority of websites use cookies to help you have a better experience when using their website. For example, when you have cookies that keep track of what you have seen on a website, it can give you suggestions new links and information that are relevant to your interests. 

There are people that do not like the idea of being tracked. It brings a whole issue of privacy. Some people see this as an invasion of privacy; as they feel they are being spied on by big companies. 

Don't fear, the very browser you are using to read this, gives you the power to stop cookies from being stored in your computer. Keep in mind though, that a lot functionality can be stopped if you don't use cookies. Some websites completely stop working if you happen to block their cookies. 

Alternatively, you can always browse website in the PRIVACY MODE that all newer browsers have. This way, the moment you close your session, none of the information is stored in your computer.