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What are First-Party Cookies?

3 min to read

First-party cookies are files created by the website you are on and saved on your PC.

The website uses the information from the cookies to make the user’s experience smoother by remembering his preferences and tracking their activities.

They are relatively safer in the privacy manager and are mostly used for the following reasons:

• Remembering usernames and passwords

• Maintaining a record of items in a shopping cart

• Evaluate a site’s traffic

Though first-party cookies are useful, some of the information is personal. Always refer to a website’s privacy policy to learn what they do with the information provided.

Key Takeaways:
  • First-party cookies personalize websites
    • Sites remember your preferences.
  • Control your cookies
    • Manage them in your browser settings.
  • First-party cookies are site-specific
    • They don't track you across the web.
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What are First-Party Cookies?

What are first-party cookies used for?

First-party cookies help websites remember specific details about your previous visits, excluding the necessity of re-entering information each time a visitor accesses it. These cookies commonly hold the following information: 

  • Your login details: It enables ongoing account access, but it is wise to consider the importance of managing your credentials securely.

  • Your shopping cart items: Cookies maintain your shopping cart, enabling you to leave the page and come back later to continue your purchase without any of your chosen items being lost.

  • Your preferences: Cookies save your choices regarding language settings or currency.
Pro Tip:
All information kept is used to improve your browsing experience, but it is wise to read the website’s cookie policy so you know how they treat your personal information.

How long do first-party cookies last?

The lifetime of first-party cookies is reliant on the purpose they carry. The duration of its validity will depend on a few things:

  • Session cookies: These are collected temporarily and the information expires as you close the browser.

  • Persistent cookies: These cookies remain on your device according to the set period provided in the website agreement. 
Pro Tip:
Access your browser settings if you wish to delete the information saved in the computer, especially if you are using a public device and you do not want to risk sharing your credentials.

Can I delete first-party cookies?

Yes, first-party cookies can be deleted anytime you wish. Here is how:

  • Access your device’s web browser’s settings.

  • Look for the “Privacy” or “Security” section. Then, find the option to clear browsing data, as well as the cookies saved.
Pro Tip: 
Consider implementing a browser add-on for targeted cookie removal; this measure may improve how you manage your privacy.

Can first-party cookies be used to track me across the internet?

No, first-party cookies have restrictions on the type of information they can gather and they are tied only to the website that saved them. Also, first-party cookies are unable to monitor your activities on other websites you visit. In contrast to third-party cookies, which may be used to monitor several sites.

Pro Tip: 
Utilize a browser focused on privacy or a browser add-on to reduce tracking; this will increase your privacy when engaging online.

What are the benefits of first-party cookies?

The use of first-party cookies can offer benefits for both users and website owners, while their validity and applications require careful consideration. 

  • Customized experience: Websites can utilize the information provided to customize their suggestions.

  • Website functionality improvement: This is core to such functions as shopping carts, logins, etc.

  • User activity through a website: Explores how users interact with the site and uses it to assess and refine the performance of the site.
Pro Tip: 
While browsing trusted websites turn first-party cookies on for a more tailored and streamlined experience.

Conclusion

First-party cookies enhance user experience by tailoring websites and remembering user preferences. Designed for temporary use, these security features possess a defined expiration date and are readily removable. For safe Internet browsing, turn them on for sites you trust and adjust your privacy preferences.

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