Cookies are an integral part of our online experience, but many users are unaware of what
information they track. While you’re aware that cookies can track your online data, do you know
the things cookies do not track? In this blog post, we will delve into the world of cookies,
exploring the things they track and shedding light on what they don’t. By understanding the
scope of cookie tracking, you can make informed decisions about your online privacy. But first,
let’s define cookies.
What are Cookies?
Cookies are text files that contain your details like logins, location, and browser history. They
are pivotal to how websites makes suggestions and advertisements for you. There are other
things cookies track; perhaps you know them already, but we’ll discuss them in detail here:
- Basic information
Cookies primarily store essential information to enhance your browsing experience. Some basic
information cookies store are your user preferences and shopping cart details. By retaining
these details, websites can remember your preferences and provide a smoother, personalized
experience.
- User behavior
Cookies track your behavior on websites, such as the pages you visit and the links you click.
This data enables website owners to analyze user engagement, improve their services, and
offer relevant recommendations. Conversion tracking helps businesses measure the
effectiveness of their marketing campaigns.
- Personalization and targeting
Cookies play a crucial role in delivering personalized content and targeted advertisements. They
gather information about your interests and browsing history, allowing websites to tailor content
specifically for you. Advertisers leverage this data to deliver ads that are more likely to align with
your preferences.
Privacy Concerns and Limitations as regards Cookies
Although cookies are generally harmless, there have been concerns as regards the types of
data they store and their duration of data storage. Concerns are that cookies store too much
sensitive information like IP addresses and browsing patterns which has privacy implications.
Nonetheless, it’s essential to note that cookies have limitations in tracking user activities. Cross-
device tracking poses challenges, as cookies are tied to individual devices. However, browser
settings and privacy tools offer some control over cookie tracking. Incognito mode and private
browsing can also help minimize cookie tracking.
The Things Cookies Do Not Track
- Personally identifiable information (PII)
Against what you already know, cookies do not track personally identifiable information like your
name, address, or social security number. They focus on anonymous identifiers and behavioral
patterns rather than personal details.
- Passwords and sensitive data
Cookies do not store sensitive information like passwords or credit card details. Modern
websites utilize secure encryption techniques and separate mechanisms for handling sensitive
data.
- Offline activities
Cookies are confined to online activities and cannot track your offline behavior. They are
specific to the websites you visit and do not have visibility into other applications or offline
actions.
- Real-time location (in most cases)
Cookies generally do not track your real-time location. Location tracking typically requires
explicit user consent or the use of dedicated location services.
Cookies in XPASS
XPASS stands out by providing pre-made cookies sourced from major platforms containing trackers of Facebook and Google. These third-party cookies offer users distinct benefits in the online world, leading to improved privacy and personalized interactions. By utilizing cookies from well-known platforms, XPASS users can access a wide range of advantages while retaining authority over their personal data.
To Wrap It Up
In the digital age, understanding cookies and their tracking capabilities is crucial for protecting
your online privacy. While cookies track basic information and user behavior, and enable
personalization, they do not track personally identifiable information, sensitive data, offline
activities, or real-time location in most cases. By leveraging user control options and being
aware of privacy regulations, you can strike a balance between convenience and privacy.