Cookies test

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SiteRay Test
First appeared:Sitescore 1.0
Applies to:All versions
Type:Individual test
Scored:Sometimes

What does it do?

Test for the use of cookies by a website.

Why is it important?

Cookies are used to store small pieces of information between webpages. Using cookies makes it possible for a website to remember someone when they return (e.g. for tracking). Cookies are also commonly used for user logins and e-commerce; although it is possible to accomplish these things without cookies it is much more difficult.

Your website should have a privacy policy which explains whether you use cookies, and if so for what purposes. This test can help you ensure you’re following your own guidelines.

Bear in mind some people block cookies, and if your website requires them this is also useful to know.

Example results

How is it measured?

SiteRay records all of the cookies it encounters as it explores your website.

No score is awarded unless the website should not be using cookies and it is.

Common problems

Website uses cookies, but SiteRay doesn't see them

Cookies are only noted for the HTML pages tested within the URLs specified. Cookies for tracking images and other domains will be ignored.

How to improve this score

In most cases, no score will be reported. Where a poor score is present, either ensure the website does not use cookies, or update the privacy policy to state that it does.

How to use this test effectively

This test is mostly informational, and of most use to more technically inclined users. It does quickly tell you whether your website is using cookies or not (nearly all websites will).

See all SiteRay tests.
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