George Hammond: When it comes to online privacy, understanding the various categories of cookies is essential. Here's a simple guide to help you navigate through them:
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the proper functioning of a website. They are usually set in response to actions you take, such as setting privacy preferences, logging in, or filling out forms. While you can set your browser to block these cookies, some parts of the website may not function properly as a result.
Functional Cookies
Functional cookies enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by the website or by third-party providers whose services are added to the pages. If these cookies are disabled, some or all of the services may not function properly.
Advertising Cookies
Advertising cookies are set by advertising partners to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant ads on other websites. These cookies do not store personal information but rely on identifying your browser and device. Disabling these cookies will result in less targeted advertising.
Performance Cookies
Performance cookies help website owners understand how visitors interact with the site by collecting and reporting information anonymously. These cookies enable the site to analyze its performance and make improvements based on user behavior. If you opt out of these cookies, the website will be unable to track and improve its performance.
Other Online Identifiers
These include various online identifiers and device characteristics that may be used to recognize your device across different apps and websites for targeted advertising and analytics.
Location and Device Characteristics
With your consent, precise location data and specific device characteristics may be used to support various purposes, such as providing localized services and distinguishing your device from others.
Security and Technical Support
Your data may be used to monitor for fraudulent activity, ensure the security of systems, and facilitate the delivery of content and ads. Information like IP addresses and device capabilities is utilized for technical compatibility and transmission of content.
Data Matching and Linking
Your activity on the website may be combined with information from other sources to support various purposes, such as personalization and analytics. This may involve matching your device with others linked to you or your household.
Device Identification
Your device may be distinguished from others based on automatically transmitted information, aiding purposes like analytics and personalization.