Cookies (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Computer Science): Revision Note
Exam code: 2210
Cookies
What is a cookie?
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Cambridge IGCSE 0478 expects you to describe the purpose of cookies, differentiate between session and persistent types, and explain the legal requirement for user consent. This page covers exactly what examiners test, no extra fluff.
A cookie is a tiny data file stored on a computer by browser software that holds information relating to your browsing activity
Typically a cookie will contain:
Browsing history - what websites you have visited
Login information - usernames & passwords
Preferences - language/font size/themes
The two types of cookie are:
Session - Created and replaced every time a user visits a website
Persistent - Created and saved the first time a user visits a website, retained until they expire
Examiner Tips and Tricks
Examiners are looking for what cookies do, not whether you think they’re good or bad. Focus on their purpose: storing login info, preferences, and session data, not "tracking users" or “spying.”
What is the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (2003)?
The Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (2003) is a law that governs the use of cookies
Any website that wants to store a cookie must:
Tell users the cookies are there
Explain what the cookies are doing
Obtain users consent to store the cookie
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