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In this article, we explain simply:
- what cookies are
- what they're for
- why sites ask for consent
- what risks there really are
- how to navigate them calmly and consciously
🍪 What are cookies?
Cookies are small text files that websites save on your device (smartphone, computer, or tablet) while you browse.
They are mainly used to recognize your browser when you return to the site and to store certain information, such as:
- your chosen language
- the items in your e-commerce cart
- if you are already logged in to a site
- privacy preferences
These are not viruses or dangerous software: they are simply temporary memory useful to the site.
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| Cookie Banner example |
🧬 There are different types of cookies
Not all cookies are the same. The main ones are:
1. Technical (or necessary) cookies ⚙️
They are necessary for the functioning of the site. Examples: keeping you logged in to your account, remembering your shopping cart, making buttons work.
➡️ They do not require consent because they are essential.
2. Preference cookies ✔️
They store choices such as language, layout, and geographic region.
➡️ They almost always require consent.
3. Statistical cookies (analytics) 📈
They help website managers understand how the site is used (which pages you visit, how long you stay, etc.).
➡️ They generally require consent, except when the data is completely anonymous.
4. Marketing or profiling cookies 👥
These are the most "sensitive" cookies. They also track your browsing on other sites to show you personalized ads.
➡️ They always require your explicit consent.
🚩 Why does the cookie banner appear?
Since 2018 (with the GDPR), European websites must:
- inform you about which cookies they use
- ask your consent for all unnecessary cookies
- allow you to refuse them as easily as you could accept them
The banner serves only this purpose: to guarantee your rights.
⁉️ Are cookies dangerous?
In themselves No: they are just text files that cannot contain viruses or damage your device.
However, profiling cookies can affect your privacy because they collect information about your online habits.
That's why it's important to choose wisely which ones to accept.
🔤 How to behave when faced with the cookie banner
Here's a quick guide to help you decide with peace of mind.
✔️ If you're in a hurry and want more privacy:
Reject all (remember: the necessary ones cannot be rejected, so there's no point in trying 😉).
The site will still work, except for rare exceptions.
✔️ If you want a more personalized experience:
Accept only the cookies that interest you, using the "Customize" or "Manage preferences" button.
✔️ If you're not worried about personalized advertising:
Accept all Cookies.
You'll receive ads more relevant to your interests, but you'll give up some privacy.
💎 Practical tips to protect your privacy online
- Refuse marketing cookies on sites you only visit once.
They're of no use to you. - Accept only technical cookies on unknown or untrustworthy sites.
- Use "Anonymous / Incognito" mode if you want to prevent cookies from being saved.
- Periodically delete cookies from your browser.
This is simple and helps reduce tracking. - Install extensions that limit trackers, such as Privacy Badger or uBlock Origin.
- Be wary of sites that don't allow you to easily opt out: they may not be compliant.
🏁 In conclusion
Cookies aren't something to fear: they're tools that help the web work. The important thing is to understand which ones you're accepting and why. With a few simple rules, you can browse without anxiety and with maximum control over your privacy.
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