Yahoo and Its Family of Brands: Understanding Their Use of Cookies and Privacy Practices
Yahoo, a widely recognized digital media company, is part of a larger family of brands that includes not only Yahoo itself but also AOL, Engadget, In The Know, and Makers. These sites and apps, owned and operated by the Yahoo group, collectively provide a broad range of content and services to millions of users worldwide.
What Are Cookies and How Does Yahoo Use Them?
When users access any of the websites or applications under the Yahoo family, the company employs cookies and similar technologies—including web storage—to enhance the user experience. Cookies are small data files stored on a user’s device that allow websites and apps to remember information about the visit.
Yahoo uses cookies primarily to:
- Deliver and maintain its sites and services effectively.
- Authenticate users, enforce security measures, and prevent spam and abuse.
- Gather measurement data such as the number of visitors, types of devices used (for instance, iOS or Android), browsers accessed, and the duration of visits.
Importantly, this data is collected in aggregate form, ensuring it is not linked to individual users.
Consent and Personal Data
Yahoo emphasizes transparency regarding user consent. When users click "Accept all," Yahoo and its partners—including 237 entities participating in the IAB Transparency & Consent Framework—may store or access information on devices. This includes use of precise geolocation data, IP addresses, browsing, and search data. The purposes for this data use include analytics, personalized advertising and content, content and advertising measurement, audience research, and development of new services.
Alternatively, users may choose to reject all cookies used for these extended purposes by selecting "Reject all." Yahoo also provides a "Manage privacy settings" option that allows users to customize their cookie and data usage preferences.
Users retain control over their data and can withdraw consent or modify their choices at any time by accessing the "Privacy & cookie settings" or the "Privacy dashboard" available on Yahoo’s sites and apps.
Where to Learn More
For those interested in a deeper understanding of how Yahoo manages personal data and cookies, the company offers detailed information in its privacy policy and cookie policy, readily accessible to all users.
By maintaining this level of openness regarding cookie use and privacy, Yahoo aims to foster trust while continuing to offer engaging and secure digital experiences across all its brands.
