What are cookies?

A cookie is a small text file that has a unique identifier. When you visit a website, their computer asks your computer for permission to store this text file on your hard drive in a special place just for cookies.

An example use of a cookie

When you first visit this site, a message states by using this site you agree to the use of cookies. If you click the 'Accept & Close' button, a session cookie is set, so I know not to show you this message again. When you close your browser, the cookie is deleted.

Session & persistent cookies

Cookies are either session or persistent cookies. Session cookies only last for the length of your visit to a website and delete themselves when you close your browser. Persistent cookies stay on your device even when you close your browser.

Cookies for third party adverts

These will be persistent cookies set by the advertiser so I have no control over them. They are obviously used to show adverts they think you will like. If you've played any of 'Windows' card games, you'll probably have more than 50 cookies set by the adverts that appear.

Tracking cookies

Cookies can be used to track you from site to site, but not every site does this. You can set your browser to 'Do Not Track' (DNT) which sends a message to the site you're visiting not to do this. This setting is not always easy to find, but it should be there if you have the latest browser version.

Deleting your cookies

Cookies can be deleted from your hard drive if you want to do this. See your browser's Help section on how to do this.

Blocking cookies

Most internet browsers are set to accept cookies by default but you can set your browser to refuse cookies. See the Help section of your browser to find where your settings are. Please note: by blocking cookies, some features of this website may stop working.