What are Cookies?
Cookies, pixels or similar technologies are small files or pieces of information stored on your computer or device when you visit a website. These files allow the website to retain your actions and preferences, such as login details, language settings, font size and other display options. By saving this information, cookies make sure you do not need to repeatedly re-enter your preferences when returning to the site or navigating between pages.
Why does Sister Sites use cookies?
Sister Sites uses cookies to provide a complete range of website functions, recognise user preferences and improve overall usability. Cookies improve navigation, making the website more comfortable and convenient for visitors during their interactions.
How do cookie preferences impact the usability of Sister Sites?
Cookie preferences impact the usability of Sister Sites by controlling data collection, which can affect functionality, personalisation and user experience. Sister Sites provides users with options for managing cookie preferences. By using the website, users agree to the use and storage of cookies on their computer or device. You can access the website without cookies, but this may impair certain features and slow down navigation.
Users who do not wish to store cookies can deactivate this option through their browser's system settings. Stored cookies can be deleted at any time using the same settings. It is important to note that rejecting all cookies may limit the functionality of the website's services.
How are cookies categorised on Sister Sites?
Cookies are categorised on Sister Sites based on their purpose, function, storage duration and provider.
3 factors for categorisation of cookies on Sister Sites are listed below.
- Technical necessity. Some cookies are essential for technical purposes so the website (sistersites.org.uk) functions correctly and provides core services.
- Storage duration. Cookies are classified by how long they are stored and used at Sister Sites, ranging from session cookies, which are temporary and deleted after a browsing session, to persistent cookies, which remain on a device for a set period.
- Cookie provider. Cookies are either placed and managed directly by Sister Sites (first-party cookies) or by external entities such as service providers or partners (third-party cookies).
What are the categories of cookies based on technical necessity?
The categories of cookies based on technical necessity include necessary and not necessary types which are explained below.
- Necessary cookies. Necessary cookies are essential for the website and its functions to operate correctly. These cookies are automatically placed on your computer or device when you access the website or specific functions, unless your browser is configured to reject cookies.
- Not necessary cookies. Not necessary cookies enhance the convenience and performance of the website or save specific settings you have made. These cookies are also used to gather information about the frequency of use of certain website areas, allowing website owners to tailor the website more effectively to your needs and preferences. These cookies support a more personalised and efficient user experience and are not strictly required for technical functionality.
What are the categories of cookies based on storage duration?
The categories of cookies based on storage duration include session cookies, permanent cookies and flow cookies.
- Session cookies. Session cookies function temporarily during your visit to the website. These cookies store information needed for your current session and are deleted automatically once you leave the website or the session expires. For instance, session cookies may retain details to facilitate navigation or temporary preferences during your visit.
- Permanent cookies. Permanent cookies remain stored for an extended period, enabling the website to recognise you on future visits. These cookies allow access to saved settings, making navigation faster and more convenient. For example, permanent cookies may store your selected language preferences or other options to avoid resetting them on each visit. They are automatically deleted after a predefined duration.
- Flow cookies. Flow cookies facilitate communication between internal servers within the company’s infrastructure. These cookies are assigned to your device when you begin browsing the website and are deleted once your navigation ends. Flow cookies use a unique identification number but do not reveal any information about the individual user or customer.
What are the categories of cookies based on cookie providers?
The categories of cookies based on cookie providers are listed below.
- Provider cookies. Provider cookies are directly placed by the website operator, either by us or by a third party commissioned to act on our behalf. They are essential for maintaining session functionality and providing a smooth user experience.
- Third-party cookies. Third-party cookies are created and used by external organisations or websites. Examples include cookies from web analytics tools, which track user activity and measure reach, and those used by external providers for advertising or integrating content from social networks, such as social plugins.
How does Sister Sites use cookies for web analytics and reach measurement?
Sister Sites uses cookies for web analytics and reach measurement to gather data on user behaviour and preferences through Google Analytics. Google Analytics is a web analytics service provided by Google Inc. which uses cookies to analyse how users interact with specific areas of the website and identify preferences.
When you use Sister Sites, the cookies generate information about your activity, including your truncated IP address, which is sent to Google's servers in the United States and stored there. Google processes this data to analyse website usage, create activity reports for us and deliver additional services related to website and Internet use. In certain situations, Google may share this data with third parties, either as required by law or when third parties process the data on behalf of Google.
Which cookies are used by Sister Sites?
One of the primary cookies that Sister Sites uses is the Google Analytics cookie, which collects information such as the time of visits, pages viewed, whether the user is a returning visitor and the websites visited before reaching ours. This helps Sister Sites understand user behaviour and improve the website experience.
How to prevent Google Analytics from tracking your activity on Sister Sites?
To prevent Google Analytics from tracking your activity on Sister Sites, you can deactivate it by installing a browser add-on. This add-on, available at https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=, stores "opt-out" information on your device to prevent Google Analytics from tracking your activity.
However, this opt-out applies only to the specific device and browser where it was activated. You may need to reactivate the opt-out if you clear cookies on Sister Sites.
What are the effects of disabling cookies on Sister Sites?
The effects of disabling cookies on Sister Sites are listed below.
- Certain features on Sister Sites may not function properly by disabling cookies.
- Navigation could become slower on Sister Sites by rejecting cookies.
- Rejecting all cookies may limit the functionality of Sister Sites services.
How often does Sister Sites update its cookies policy?
Sister Sites updates its cookies policy periodically, as necessary. Any updates are promptly posted on the cookies policy page to keep visitors informed of changes.
