When browsing the internet, it's common to come across pop-up windows
asking us to accept cookies or pay for a subscription to browse without
them. But, what does it really mean to accept or reject cookies?
It's data that is stored in your browser when you visit a website. They contain information on your browsing preferences, settings, login details and products saved in your list of favourites.
They are used to store login details, language and location settings, and save products in the shopping basket. They also collect data on how we interact with a website to improve its performance.
The most usual types are:
According to the 2024 guide of the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD), it is legal to offer the option to pay to browse without cookies. Users cannot be prevented from accessing the service if they reject cookies, but the alternative to tracking may not be free.
Rejecting cookies and paying for privacy: offers greater privacy in exchange for a monthly fee. However, it will be less personalised and does not guarantee completely anonymous browsing, since there are other ways to track you.
Accepting cookies and browsing for free: involves transferring your browsing data in exchange for free access to the content. Although you don't pay outright, you pay with your personal date and you're exposing yourself to personalised ads.
