In one sentence: Tracking cookies are small files, saved on your device by websites you visit, that are used to follow what you do online.
Why it matters: Many cookies are harmless. They can remember what is in your shopping cart or keep you signed in. Some are used to track your browsing, and third-party cookies, which come from sites other than the one you are visiting, can link your activity across different sites.
One thing to do: Open your browser settings and choose to block third-party cookies, or clear your cookies.
Related terms: privacy settings, data broker, metadata
Checked: 25 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change. If yours looks different, check the organization's own page.
