You are spending an increasing amount of time on the internet. Protecting your personally identifiable information (PII) is of utmost importance. Your browser saves small pieces of data called cookies every time you browse the internet. Some cookies can be beneficial, like when a web page remembers your login on a trusted website. However, some cookies (third-party cookies) can pose serious risk, and you’ll want to avoid them.
What are third-party cookies?
Third-party cookies are made by domains other than the ones you are visiting. For example, when you are reading an article on a news site, you may also be getting a cookie from an advertising or analytic service embedded in the site. This cookie will be stored on your browser just like first-party cookies, but it will be tracking your activity of browsing different sites on the Internet. It tracks your habits, preferences, and activities, all of which can be used to build a profile on you.
Cross-site tracking is mainly used to target ads against you, but it can also be used for more unsavoury purposes.
Why Blocking Third-Party Cookies Matters?
Blocking third-party cookies is one of the easiest and best ways you can increase your online privacy. Here is why it is important:
Stops Cross-Site Tracking:
Cookies can be used to track users easily across various websites, without consent, creating very detailed user profiles. By blocking third-party cookies, you are stopping many websites from treating you as though you are under surveillance.
Lowers Security Threats:
Cookies can be the target of session hijacking, which is a type of online attack where attackers can steal a session ID from a user and impersonate the user online to conduct various fraudulent acts. Reducing unnecessary cookies reduces its target surface.
Fewer Potential Openings to Access Sensitive Information:
Cookies can contain very old (and perhaps sensitive) information in stored files that might be saved in your cached browser. If your local system or browser has been compromised, this information may have been exposed.
Actions You Must Take
You do not need complex tech skills to better protect your information. Simply follow these steps:
- Block Third-Party Cookies in your Browser Settings
- All major browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari, give the option to block third-party cookies as a function under Privacy or Security.
- Allow Cookies on trusted sites only
- If you trust a site and want to use a feature that requires cookies (like logins or shopping carts), use the option to allow cookies on that trusted site only. Do not enable cookies on a site you do not know or don’t trust.
- Delete Unused Cookies and Regularly Clear your Cookies.
Get in the habit of deleting cookies. In addition to regularly clearing your cached history of the cookie. This will help ensure you have minimal outdated information that may expose you as you start to use the browser again.
Blocking third-party cookies is a minor action on your part that makes you much further along the path of taking control over your privacy. It will not make your browsing history hidden from everyone, but it will prevent most advertisers and trackers, along with fraudulent actors, from monitoring your actions and accessing your information.
In a world where personal data is considered currency, it is important to take proactive steps, like managing your cookie settings, to protect your online identity.
Be informed. Be safe.
For more guidance on staying secure online, connect with our team to discuss your needs or book an appointment for tailored cybersecurity advice.
