First party cookies

What are first party cookies?

First party cookies are small data units that are set by the website that the user visits directly. These cookies are stored on the user's end device and can only be read by the domain that set them.

Use of first party cookies

• Session management: They enable websites to remember a user's interactions during a session, such as login data or language settings.
• Personalization: Websites can use first party cookies to customize content and offers based on user behavior.
• Analysis: They help collect data on user behavior to improve website performance.

Challenges with first party cookies: compliance with the GDPR

Even though first party cookies are generally less problematic than third party cookies, they must still comply with data protection requirements. The GDPR requires that cookies that collect personal data or are used for tracking purposes require the user's consent.

Example of the use of first party cookies

An e-commerce website sets a first party cookie to remember the items in a user's shopping cart when they leave the site and return later.

Important note

First party cookies are central to the functionality and usability of many websites, but users should always have the option to accept or decline their use.