Cookies are small pieces of information created by a website that is stored in your computer either temporarily for that session only (session cookie) or permanently on the hard drive (persistent cookie). Cookies provide a way for the website to recognize you and keep track of your preferences. The use of cookies is an industry standard, and as such, you will find that most major websites use them.

Session cookies, also called a transient cookie, is stored in temporary memory and does not collect information from your computer. This type of cookie is tied to your web browser and is typically utilized for website administration, such as keeping your website login (or session) active for a period of time. They will expire if you reach a default time-out limit, if you clear your browser cache, or when you completely close down your web browser.

Persistent cookies are not deleted when you close your browser but are stored on your computer’s hard drive. These types of cookies can be used to track your browsing across different sites in order to show you targeted advertisements when you visit. Other uses of persistent cookies may be stored when that site requires information, such as your preferences, for the next time you visit that site.

Most web browsers are initially set up to accept cookies. You can reset your web browser to refuse cookies or to indicate when a cookie is being sent. However, note that some parts of a website, including this website, may not function properly if you refuse cookies. For example, without cookies, the website will not be able to keep you logged in.