Cookies are considered simple messages that a server managing a website sends proactively to the web browser being used to browse that website, with the purpose of tracking the activities of the person viewing the site.
This message is formatted as an HTTP header, consisting of a string of text. This text string is stored in the browser’s memory. The web browser sequentially saves cookie information onto the hard drive, which means that when the browser is closed and reopened, the cookie information can still be accessed.
This message is formatted as a simple text string, which is stored in the “Temp” directory of the web browser, and the browser automatically saves all cookie information to the hard drive. This information reflects the user’s habits when visiting the website, such as which categories they prefer to view, and afterwards, it automatically sends the collected information back to the website owner. Even when the browser is closed, cookies remain stored on the machine and continue to operate on subsequent visits. Based on the information sent by the cookies, the website owner can understand what topics the web visitors are interested in, allowing them to display appropriate advertisements to sell products.
The use of cookies offers numerous benefits for website owners:
– They can gather information about individuals visiting their website, including how frequently they visit and the duration of each visit.
– They can gain insights into user perceptions while browsing the site. Cookies can assist in storing your personal information, making your next visit to the website more convenient. For instance, when visiting websites that require you to check boxes like “Remember me on this computer,” especially on email websites, forums, etc., you may find your nickname already filled in the username box during your next visit, and it may even remember your password, allowing you to enter directly into your registered account with just an “Enter.” Online shopping websites take it a step further by remembering your previous purchases to serve advertisements for new products that are more appealing than what you previously bought. Servers will track your shopping activities, see which items you select, and store this information in cookies.
– They will use cookies to tailor their advertisements. Cookies provide their owners with insights into which advertisements are viewed the most, allowing them to make adjustments or design ads accordingly.
Cookie owners cannot use them to spread viruses, spyware, trojans, etc., as they cannot access your hard drive. However, they can still collect a significant amount of your personal information, especially information that you provide to the website. For instance, your credit card information may be stored in cookies if you allow the site to remember you with options like “Remember me on this computer” or “Remember username.”
In reality, cookies are not harmful, but there can be potential risks. Modern “super cookies” can collect more than you might expect. While they are not as dangerous as spyware, viruses, or trojans, the use of cookies by website owners to track users has been deemed illegal in the U.S.
It’s best to completely eliminate cookies using computer cleaning tools such as: SBMAV Disk Cleaner, Your Uninstaller! 2006 Pro, System Cleaner,…
To prevent cookies from invading your computer while using Internet Explorer, follow these steps: Go to the Tool menu -> Internet Options -> select the Privacy tab -> click the “Advanced” button -> check the box for “Override automatic cookie handling,” then check both boxes for “Block” to completely block cookies, and click OK to finish.
HOÀNG KIM ANH
