Impact of online cookies on internet surfing
Author: Manav Gohil
Roll No: 75
Class: MMS 2023-25
Kohinoor Business School
Understanding Cookies and Web Bugs
William T. Harding et al. (2001) state that cookies play an important role in a user’s experiences by acting as digital markers that assist websites in remembering users and their preferences. Throughout their conversation they delved into the definition of cookies and how they operate and their importance in improving user engagement on the web. They also discussed the privacy concerns emphasizing the need for transparency in their use. It was stated that as technology advances the applications and consequences of cookies will evolve as well. It was advised that despite offering convenience and personalization it’s important to be aware of their impact on privacy and security. By staying informed and promoting practices users can ensure that cookies can remain tools in the digital realm while respecting user privacy and independence.
Consumer Attitudes Towards Cookies
Kumar S. et al. (2014) studied the sense of caution among participants when it comes to cookies. The consumer’s worry about their privacy being invaded, especially with targeted ads and data tracking without clear consent. They stated that trust is key here. Participants wanted transparency and control over how their data was used. Privacy violations and trustworthiness greatly influenced how people viewed cookies. This highlighted the importance of website operators and marketers being upfront and respectful of users’ privacy. Ultimately, they suggested that building trust through responsible cookie practices is vital for promoting positive attitudes toward their use online.
Cookie Disclosure and Consumer Trust Online
Miyazaki A. D. (2008) emphasized on the issue of online privacy and how it loomed large in today’s digital landscape, affecting individuals, businesses, and policymakers alike. The study delved deeply into the intricate web of sentiments surrounding the utilization of cookies by websites without explicit user consent. Unveiling a pivotal finding, the research highlighted that transparent disclosure regarding cookie usage significantly enhanced users’ willingness to consent. Nevertheless, it brought forward a pressing need for enhanced communication strategies among websites to explain their cookie policies more effectively. Moreover, the study explained the interplay between one’s prior online encounters and their inherent valuation of privacy in shaping their attitudes towards cookies. Whether through positive or negative past experiences, individuals developed varying degrees of comfort or wariness towards online tracking mechanisms. Therefore, it was advised that creating greater awareness and understanding of cookie practices led to safeguarding of users’ privacy rights in the digital sphere.
Consumer Power, Risk and Cookie notices
Bornschein, R. et al (2020) stated that different websites handled cookie notifications differently, giving users varying degrees of choice. Some offered no options, while others provided multiple choices. The research focused on EU websites which found that users felt more empowered when given “mixed consent” options. The visibility and flexibility of cookie notices influenced how users perceived privacy risks. Users’ sense of control over their data affected their views on privacy practices. By offering more choices in cookie notifications, websites can make users feel safer and more positive. It was noted that regulations on privacy practices did affect users’ access to certain websites. Website operators could benefit from providing users with more control over cookie settings, leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.
E-commerce and Privacy Issues
Azmi, I. M. (2002) explored the case of the Malaysian government as it planned to replace ID cards with a new smart card that held personal, driving, immigration, health, and credit card details. However, people worried this could lead to privacy issues. Despite not being a recognized right in Malaysia, privacy regulation faced challenges from industries resisting new laws. Critics stated that these laws focused too much on protecting data and not enough on broader privacy concerns. Some suggested self-regulation, but others wait for new measures to address cookie-related privacy issues.
Auditing Cookies
Woods, B. D. (2011) stated that neglecting to protect the data collected from website visitors through cookies could result in financial losses and damage to reputation. Recent incidents highlighted the risks associated with storing customer data on servers and websites. Companies utilized cookies to gather customer information, including personal details. It was advised that internal auditors to assess the risks linked to cookie usage and ensure data security. Additionally, mobile apps also used cookies for financial transactions, emphasizing the need for audit scrutiny and data encryption. Safeguarding and responsibly managing customer data obtained through cookies was stated to be vital to uphold privacy and maintain a positive reputation.
Preventing Sub-session Hijacking Online
Calzavara, S. et al (2019) looked at how hackers can steal user’s session when they’re using a website and found a way to stop them using something called “sub-session linking.” This method helped secure one’s online sessions, especially when it came to cookies, which stored their information. They created a tool called Warden to make this process easier for website owners, so they could protect one’s information without much hassle. Their tests showed that Warden worked well without slowing things down. The authors stated that in the future, they wanted to find even simpler ways to keep users’ information safe and look at more websites to see how they could make them more secure.
CookiExt: Securing Browsers
Bugliesi M. et al (2015) elaborated on CookiExt, a browser extension designed to prevent session cookie theft. It worked by flagging cookies appropriately and automatically redirecting HTTP requests to HTTPS for added security. The extension used heuristics to identify session cookies and included backup measures for situations where HTTPS deployment was only partial. Through experiments, CookiExt was tested for both security and usability, and it was found to be non-interfering with existing security measures. However, the authors suggested that its effectiveness relied on the accuracy of its session cookie detection heuristics.
Strategies against Online Threats
Leon J. F. (2007) stated that the internet is full of valuable information, but it’s also a risky place where malicious scripts can steal or damage data. Criminal hackers used a technique called cross-site scripting to inject these harmful scripts into websites and steal information. He suggested that one way to protect against them is by disabling all scripts in the user’s browser, but this may cause issues with certain websites’ functionality. Users could also defend against spyware by blocking cookies and being careful with online interactions. He emphasised on the importance of taking personal steps to close security gaps and ensure computer safety.
Essential Tips for Cyber Safety
Leon. J. F. (2008) stated that despite efforts to make the internet safer, cybercrime remained to be a big problem. Hackers used tricks like fake emails and software weaknesses to attack people. He suggested that in order to fight back, it was important to encrypt emails, block sneaky cookies, and turn off certain features. Understanding software weaknesses and using firewalls could also help. Keeping websites and Wi-Fi networks secure was crucial for protecting important information. Using special software for passwords can make them safer too. By doing these things, users could all stay safe online.
Conclusion
The discussions on cookies and web bugs underscore the pivotal role these digital markers play in enhancing user experiences online while raising concerns about privacy. Studies emphasize the importance of transparency, trust, and user control regarding data usage. Strategies such as responsible cookie practices, enhanced communication of policies, and offering multiple consent options aim to address these concerns and promote positive attitudes toward cookies. Moreover, measures like auditing, browser extensions, and tools for session security demonstrate ongoing efforts to safeguard user privacy and mitigate online threats. Despite the persistent challenges posed by cybercrime, adopting proactive cyber safety measures, such as encryption, cookie blocking, and software security, remains imperative for ensuring a safer online environment.
References:
Azmi, I. M. (2002). E-Commerce and Privacy Issues: An Analysis of the Personal Data Protection Bill. International Review of Law, Computers & Technology, 16(3), 317–330. https://doi.org/10.1080/136008602760586769
Bornschein, R., Schmidt, L., & Maier, E. (2020). The Effect of Consumers’ Perceived Power and Risk in Digital Information Privacy: The Example of Cookie Notices. Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, 39(2), 135–154. https://doi.org/10.1177/0743915620902143
Bugliesi, M., Calzavara, S., Focardi, R., & Khan, W. (2015). CookiExt: Patching the browser against session hijacking attacks. Journal of Computer Security, 23(4), 509–537. https://doi.org/10.3233/JCS-150529
Calzavara, S., Rabitti, A., & Bugliesi, M. (2019). Sub-session hijacking on the web: Root causes and prevention. Journal of Computer Security, 27(2), 233–257. https://doi.org/10.3233/JCS-181149
Leon, J. (2008). Ten Tips to Combat Cybercrime. CPA Journal, 78(5), 6–11.
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Miyazaki, A. D. (2008). Online Privacy and the Disclosure of Cookie Use: Effects on Consumer Trust and Anticipated Patronage. Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, 27(1), 19–33. https://doi.org/10.1509/jppm.27.1.19
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