Cookies and Legal Aspects
Cookies, one of the terms we frequently encounter while browsing the Internet, are small information files used by websites to improve user experience and collect data. In this article, I will discuss what cookies are, how they work and their legal aspects.
Definition and Functioning of Cookies
- What is a Cookie?
- Cookies are small text files that the web pages you visit save on your computer or phone.
- These files are stored in your browser’s memory and can recognise you when you visit the same websites later.
- Cookies are used to improve the user experience, remember session information and target advertising.
- How do cookies work?
- When you visit a website, cookies are sent to your browser by the server.
- Your browser stores these cookies and then sends them back to the server when you visit the same site.
- Cookies may contain data such as username, language preference, session information.
- By reading these cookies, the website recognises you and can offer personalised content.
Legal Aspects of Cookies
- Protection of Personal Data
- Cookies may contain personal data and are therefore subject to data protection legislation.
- Users are required to consent to cookies.
- Regulations such as GDPR and KVKK regulate the use of cookies and protect user rights.
- Cookie Notifications
- Websites are obliged to inform users about the use of cookies.
- Users are free to consent to cookies or not.
- Cookie notifications can affect the user experience and can sometimes be annoying.
- Cookie Types
- Session cookies: Valid for the duration of the session and deleted when the browser is closed.
- Persistent cookies: They are stored for a certain period of time and remain even if the browser is closed.
- Third-party cookies: Installed from a different domain (e.g. advertising networks).
Cookies are important tools that shape our internet experience. However, it is important to respect user rights and comply with data protection legislation. Websites should transparently explain the use of cookies and obtain users’ consent.