Can Cookies Lead to Identity Theft?

Cookies by themselves do not inherently pose security risks, but they can be exploited by cybercriminals. Hackers can use cookies to impersonate users, collect financial data, access accounts, or steal passwords stored in browsers. This can lead to the spread of malware and redirection to dangerous websites. Additionally, cybercriminals can manipulate cookies to make websites appear inaccessible. The primary privacy concern with cookies is their ability to track users over time, which has become sophisticated enough to profile users' web preferences through marketing cookies.

When exchanging personal information, be wary as cookies can communicate this data. Whilst e-privacy law requires website operators to implement cookie consent mechanisms within their website, disabling cookie storage in your browser's privacy settings can reduce the data exchanged and prevent passwords from being stored in the browser. Using reliable browser add-ons to disable third-party cookie trackers can help keep browsing data private. Keeping anti-malware software updated is also crucial, as malware can disguise itself as harmless cookies. If uncertain about a website's legitimacy (including when it asks to accept cookies), it's best to stop browsing.