How cookies and tracking work (and your choices)

Audience: all

Cookies and tracking technologies are tools used by websites and apps to collect information about your online activities. This information can help improve your experience, remember your preferences, and provide personalized content or ads. However, tracking can also raise privacy concerns because it may collect data about you without your full knowledge. Understanding how cookies and tracking work empowers you to make informed choices about your privacy online. You can often control or limit tracking by adjusting your browser settings, using privacy tools, or managing permissions on your devices. This guide explains the basics of cookies and tracking, what they do, your options to manage them, and when to seek help if you notice suspicious online activity.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Receiving unexpected emails or messages referencing your online activity—consider changing passwords and verifying account security.
• Frequent pop-ups or requests for personal information on websites—avoid providing data and close the site.
• Noticing unusual device behavior such as slow performance or unknown apps after browsing—run security scans and consult a professional.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing information about how cookies and tracking work.
• Guiding on privacy settings and safe online practices.
• Answering general questions about telemedicine platform security.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Investigating or resolving specific security breaches or data theft.
• Diagnosing or treating health conditions related to privacy concerns.
• Providing legal advice on data protection or privacy laws.

What are cookies and tracking technologies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device by websites you visit. They help websites remember your actions and preferences, like login details or language settings. Tracking technologies include cookies, but also other methods like web beacons and device fingerprinting, which collect information about your online behavior across sites.

Why do websites use cookies and tracking?

Websites use cookies to improve your experience, such as keeping you logged in or saving your shopping cart. Tracking helps companies understand how users interact with their sites to improve services and provide personalized ads. While many uses are helpful, some tracking collects data for marketing or profiling without clear consent.

Your choices to manage cookies and tracking

You can control cookies and tracking by:

Remember, blocking all cookies may limit website functionality.

Risks and red flags to watch for

Some tracking can lead to privacy risks, like unwanted data sharing or identity theft. Be cautious if you notice:

If you suspect your data is misused, update passwords and seek professional advice.

How telemedicine relates to cookies and tracking

Telemedicine platforms often use cookies to secure your session and remember preferences. They typically follow strict privacy rules to protect your health data. However, be aware of third-party trackers on some platforms. Always use official telemedicine services and check their privacy policies.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Review your device’s privacy and security settings before your telemedicine visit.
• Ensure your internet connection is secure and private (avoid public Wi-Fi if possible).
• Use updated browsers or apps recommended by your telemedicine provider.
• Have your login credentials ready but avoid saving passwords on shared devices.
• Understand the privacy policy of your telemedicine platform.

After your tele-visit

• Log out from the telemedicine platform after your session.
• Clear browser cookies and cache if you used a shared or public device.
• Monitor your email and accounts for any unusual activity.
• Update passwords regularly and use strong, unique passwords.
• Report any suspicious activity to your telemedicine provider or relevant authorities.

FAQs

What exactly is a cookie?

A cookie is a small text file that a website stores on your device to remember information about you, such as login status or preferences, to improve your browsing experience.

Can I stop all cookies from being used?

You can block or delete most cookies through your browser settings, but doing so may limit website functionality, such as staying logged in or saving preferences.

Are all tracking methods harmful?

Not all tracking is harmful. Some tracking helps websites work better and provide relevant content. However, some tracking collects data without clear consent, which can raise privacy concerns.

How can I protect my privacy during a telemedicine visit?

Use a secure internet connection, access telemedicine platforms through official apps or websites, review their privacy policies, and adjust your device’s privacy settings to limit unnecessary tracking.

What should I do if I suspect my data has been misused?

Change your passwords immediately, monitor your accounts for unusual activity, clear cookies and cache, and contact your telemedicine provider or a cybersecurity professional for help.

Sources

1. Privacy and Cookies — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Online Privacy and Security — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Internet Privacy Basics — National Library of Medicine.
4. Patient Privacy in Telemedicine — Mayo Clinic.

This guide provides general information about cookies, tracking, and privacy in telemedicine. It is not a substitute for professional advice or in-person care. If you have concerns about your privacy or security, please consult a qualified professional.