Cookies are small text files sent by a web server to your browser when you access the Site. Different types of cookies may be used for different purposes, such as to -
- Collect statistical information about your use of the Site;
- Save you the need to re-enter your login information on the Site;
- Remember your actions and preferences on the Site over a period of time, so you don't have to keep re-entering them whenever you come back to the Site; and
- Collect behavioral information about your surfing on other sites which then help advertisers deliver ads that are more relevant to you.
Cookies are classified into two major categories: session cookies and persistent cookies. Session cookies are temporarily stored on your device while you are visiting a given site. They are deleted once you leave the site. Persistent cookies, on the other hand, remain on your device for a more extended period of time specified in the cookie file even after you leave the site. This type of cookie remains available for retrieval by the web server when you return to visit the site.
Cookies are further classified into "first party cookies" and "third party cookies". First party cookies are those sent to your browser by the server of the site you are visiting. Third party cookies are those sent to your browser by servers other than of the site you are visiting (e.g., the server of an advertising network to which the site you are visiting is subscribed).