As a company that is invested in data and data management, it is important to keep the website and users in mind. Users are often thought of only as users but not as participants of the websites. In this short blog we will try to check in with one user of the web to see how they feel about cookie usage and privacy on the internet.
How do you feel about privacy on the internet?
I feel like privacy on the internet is important. You hear about data leaks and about the misuse of private information all the time. Almost all websites need personal data to log in to get the information or the products you need. And while I and most internet users know how unsafe the internet can be, there is a threshold for the amount of time you can be conscious of clicking all the right buttons and making new passwords. The reality is that there is a certain amount of cookie and password fatigue that comes with being online for a long time. I don’t want to change my passwords all the time, or find the right button that ensures minimal cookie usage.
Do you think there is a solution?
Personally, I'm not sure. As web supervisors for governmental agencies focus mostly on larger companies, I feel like the smaller companies are forgotten more often. I do think that keeping yourself safe is the most important thing. If this means installing VPNs or giving fake information to prevent misuse, that might be the future for individuals. The match between individuals and companies seems to be disturbed. We need all companies to adhere to the rules set by governmental organizations, no matter what size the company might be.
Do you trust companies to do it for you?
I have heard about a browser extension that uses AI to automatically fill in your preferences when visiting websites. Although it is not a viable product yet, it might be a good option in the future. I would also appreciate it if there was a standard to which companies should be held. It would also be nice if it was easier to check how your data will be used. The future is in a clearer and transparent internet.
In conclusion, it might be important to keep users' experiences in mind while making websites. As users become more well versed in cookie usage and privacy laws online, companies must be transparent and safe in the data they collect. By making it easier for users to choose their personal cookie preferences, and holding to these fairly, users will feel safer and less friction online. To learn more about cookies, click here!