An examination of user perception and misconception of internet cookies

ABSTRACT

Proper cookie management methods have long been the source of frustration to consumers and researchers alike. A primary reason for this challenge is the ability for cookies to be both beneficial and malicious. Because of this duality, a subjective component is required to appropriately deal with cookies. In this paper, we present results from focus group sessions we conducted to explore problems of cookie management. Based on some of our observations from this work, we discuss social and technical considerations and conclude that an increase in awareness is the best partial solution to privacy problems associated with cookies.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.4 COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY
      K.4.1 Public Policy Issues
          Subjects: Privacy

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.3 INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL
      H.3.5 On-line Information Services
          Subjects: Web-based services

Keywords:
World Wide Web, cookie management, cookies, focus group study, privacy, privacy awareness