Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device by the websites you visit. They are intended to make browsing the internet easier, but can also raise privacy concerns because they can be used to track your browsing behavior.

How they work

  • Storage: When you visit a website for the first time, the web server sends a small text file – the cookie – to your browser.
  • Retention: Your browser stores this cookie on your device, such as a PC, tablet, or smartphone
  • Recognition: On each subsequent visit to the website, your browser sends the stored cookie information back to the web server. This allows the website to recognize you.
  • Content: Cookies can contain various pieces of information, such as login data, language preferences, items in the shopping cart, or data about your browsing behavior.

Types of Cookies

Cookies are categorized by lifespan and origin:

  • Session cookies: These temporary cookies are deleted as soon as you close your browser. They are used, for example, for session management, such as saving items in the shopping cart during a purchase.
  • Persistent cookies: These cookies remain stored on your device even after you close the browser, until they expire or you delete them. They are used, for example, for features like “stay logged in”.
  • First-party cookies: These are set by the website you are currently visiting and are generally necessary for its basic functions.
  • Third-party cookies: These are set by other domains whose content (e.g., advertisements) is embedded in the website you are visiting. They are often used for cross-site tracking and personalized advertising and are viewed more critically from a privacy perspective.
  • Essential cookies: Indispensable for the functioning of a website, e.g., for the login area or shopping cart. They do not require explicit consent.
  • Marketing and tracking cookies: Used to analyze user behavior across different websites in order to display personalized advertising.

Data protection and GDPR

Since the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU, website operators must obtain user consent for all non-essential cookies.

  • Consent requirement: Active, informed consent (opt-in) is required. Pre-ticked boxes are not permitted.
  • Cookie banner: Websites must inform their users about the cookies used and allow them to make a choice. It must be as easy to reject cookies as it is to accept them.
  • Right to erasure: Users can request the erasure of their personal data at any time.

Managing cookies

To maintain more control over your data, you can adjust your browser settings and delete cookies regularly.

  • Browser settings: In your browser settings (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari), you can specify which cookies are accepted or blocked. It is generally recommended to block third-party cookies.
  • Regular deletion: Delete cookies regularly to make your browsing behavior less traceable for companies
  • “Accept only necessary cookies”: When cookie banners appear, select the option to accept only the strictly necessary cookies instead of allowing all.
  • Incognito mode: Browsing in incognito mode prevents cookies and browsing history from being saved.