About cookies
Cookies are files, often including unique identifiers, that are sent by web servers to web browsers, and which may then be sent back to the server each time the browser requests a page from the server.
Cookies can be used by web servers to identity and track users as they navigate different pages on a website, and to identify users returning to a website. Cookies may be either "persistent" cookies or "session" cookies. A persistent cookie consists of a text file sent by a web server to a web browser, which will be stored by the browser and will remain valid until its set expiry date (unless deleted by the user before the expiry date). A session cookie, on the other hand, will expire at the end of the user session, when the web browser is closed.
Cookies on the website
We use both session cookies and persistent cookies on the website.
How we use cookies
Cookies do not contain any information that personally identifies you, but personal information that we store about you may be linked, by us, to the information stored in and obtained from cookies. The cookies used on the website include those which are strictly necessary cookies for access and navigation, cookies that track usage (performance cookies), remember your choices (functionality cookies), and cookies that provide you with targeted content or advertising.
We may use the information we obtain from your use of our cookies for the following purposes:
- to recognize your computer when you visit the website
- to track you as you navigate the website, and to enable the use of any e-commerce facilities
- to improve the website's usability
- to analyze the use of the website
- in the administration of the website
- to personalize the website for you, including targeting advertisem*nts which may be of particular interest to you.
Third party cookies
When you use the website, you may also be sent third party cookies. Our advertisers and service providers may send you cookies. They may use the information they obtain from your use of their cookies:
- to track your browser across multiple websites
- to build a profile of your web surfing
- to target advertisem*nts which may be of particular interest to you.
In addition to the information we provide in this Cookie Policy, you can find out more information about your online choices at
youronlinechoices.com/ukBlocking cookies
Most browsers allow you to refuse to accept cookies. For example:
- in Internet Explorer you can refuse all cookies by clicking "Tools", "Internet Options", "Privacy", and selecting "Block all cookies" using the sliding selector;
- in Firefox you can block all cookies by clicking "Tools", "Options", and un-checking "Accept cookies from sites" in the "Privacy" box.
- in Google Chrome you can adjust your cookie permissions by clicking "Options", "Under the hood", Content Settings in the "Privacy" section. Click on the Cookies tab in the Content Settings.
- in Safari you can block cookies by clicking "Preferences", selecting the "Privacy" tab and "Block cookies".
Blocking all cookies will, however, have a negative impact upon the usability of many websites. If you block cookies, you may not be able to use certain features on the website (log on, access content, use search functions).
Deleting cookies
You can also delete cookies already stored on your computer:
- in Internet Explorer, you must manually delete cookie files;
- in Firefox, you can delete cookies by, first ensuring that cookies are to be deleted when you "clear private data" (this setting can be changed by clicking "Tools", "Options" and "Settings" in the "Private Data" box) and then clicking "Clear private data" in the "Tools" menu.
- in Google Chrome you can adjust your cookie permissions by clicking "Options", "Under the hood", Content Settings in the "Privacy" section. Click on the Cookies tab in the Content Settings.
- in Safari you can delete cookies by clicking "Preferences", selecting the "Privacy" tab and "Remove All Website Data".
Obviously, doing this may have a negative impact on the usability of many websites.
Contact us
The website is owned and operated by Macmillan Publishers Limited, a company registered in England under company number 00785998 with a registered office at Brunel Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 6XS, United Kingdom. Our VAT number is GB199440621
If you have any questions or comments about this Notice, or if you would like us to update information we have about you or your preferences, please contact us by:
Calling: +1 212 451 8415
Sending an email to: help@sciam.com
Writing to:
Scientific American
Customer Service
One New York Plaza, Suite 4500
New York, NY 10004-1562
As an expert in online privacy and web technology, I've delved deep into the intricacies of digital tracking mechanisms, with a particular focus on cookies. My knowledge extends beyond the surface, encompassing the technical nuances and implications associated with cookies in the digital landscape.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the provided article about cookies:
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Definition of Cookies: Cookies are files sent by web servers to web browsers, containing unique identifiers. These files may be sent back to the server each time the browser requests a page. Cookies are instrumental in identifying and tracking users as they navigate different pages on a website, aiding in recognizing returning users.
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Types of Cookies:
- Persistent Cookies: These are text files stored by the browser, remaining valid until a set expiry date.
- Session Cookies: These expire at the end of a user session or when the browser is closed.
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Cookie Usage on the Website: The website uses both session and persistent cookies. While cookies themselves do not personally identify users, the information stored in them may be linked to personal data stored by the website.
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Purposes of Using Cookies: The information obtained from cookie usage is employed for various purposes, including:
- Recognizing the user's computer during visits
- Tracking user navigation and facilitating e-commerce
- Enhancing website usability and analyzing its usage
- Administering the website
- Personalizing the website and targeting advertisem*nts based on user preferences
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Third-Party Cookies: Users may encounter third-party cookies from advertisers and service providers. These cookies are used to:
- Track user browsing across multiple websites
- Build a profile of the user's web surfing habits
- Target advertisem*nts based on user interests
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Options for Users - Blocking Cookies: Most browsers allow users to refuse cookies, but blocking all cookies can negatively impact website usability. Instructions for blocking cookies are provided for popular browsers like Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome, and Safari.
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Options for Users - Deleting Cookies: Users can also delete cookies already stored on their computers, with specific instructions for Internet Explorer, Firefox, Google Chrome, and Safari. However, it's emphasized that deleting cookies may affect the usability of many websites.
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Contact Information: The article includes contact information for users to reach out with questions or comments regarding the website's Cookie Policy. This demonstrates transparency and a commitment to addressing user concerns.
In conclusion, this article provides a comprehensive overview of cookies, covering their types, usage on the website, purposes, potential impact on usability, and user options for managing cookies. It also emphasizes the presence of third-party cookies and offers contact information for users seeking further clarification.
