Yahoo and Its Family of Brands: Understanding Cookie Usage and Privacy Choices
Yahoo is a prominent member of a larger family of digital brands, which includes not only Yahoo itself but also other well-known sites and apps such as AOL, Engadget, In The Know, and Makers. These platforms collectively serve millions of users worldwide and are operated under the same corporate umbrella.
The Role of Cookies in Enhancing User Experience
When you visit and use any of these sites or apps, Yahoo and its family of brands utilize cookies and similar technologies like web storage. Cookies are small data files stored on your device that allow websites to recognize users, remember preferences, and provide a seamless browsing experience.
According to Yahoo’s cookie policy, cookies serve several important functions:
- They enable the delivery and functionality of the sites and apps.
- They help authenticate users and implement security measures to prevent spam and abuse.
- They assist with measurement by tracking the number of visitors, device types (such as iOS or Android), browser usage, and the duration of visits. This data is collected in aggregate form and is not associated with individual users.
Personalized Advertising and Data Usage
If you choose to click “Accept all” cookies, Yahoo and its partners—including 240 entities participating in the IAB Transparency & Consent Framework—will also store or access information on your device. This includes the use of precise geolocation data and other personal information like IP addresses and browsing patterns.
This data collection is used for various purposes:
- Analytics to understand how users interact with the sites.
- Personalized advertising and content tailored to your preferences.
- Measurement of advertising and content effectiveness.
- Audience research and the development of new services.
Your Control Over Privacy Settings
Yahoo respects user privacy and offers flexibility in managing cookie preferences. If you prefer not to allow Yahoo and its partners to use cookies and personal data for personalized advertising and analytics, you can click “Reject all.” Alternatively, you can choose “Manage privacy settings” to customize your preferences more granularly.
Importantly, users have the right to withdraw consent or modify their choices at any time by accessing the “Privacy & cookie settings” or “Privacy dashboard” available on Yahoo’s sites and apps.
For more detailed information about data management practices, Yahoo provides comprehensive guidance in its privacy policy and cookie policy documents.
By understanding how Yahoo and its family of brands use cookies and manage personal data, users can make informed decisions about their online privacy while enjoying the features and services offered across these platforms.
