Understanding Yahoo’s Family of Brands and Cookie Usage

Yahoo, a prominent player in the digital landscape, is an integral part of the Yahoo family of brands, which encompasses a diverse range of websites and applications. This family includes other well-known entities such as AOL, Engadget, Rivals, In The Know, and Makers. Together, these platforms aim to provide users with a comprehensive suite of tools and content designed to meet various online needs.

The Role of Cookies in Enhancing User Experience

As users navigate through Yahoo’s sites and apps, they will encounter the use of cookies and similar technologies, including web storage. Cookies are essential tools that allow website operators to store and retrieve information from a user’s device. This functionality plays a crucial role in delivering a seamless experience.

Key Functions of Cookies

The primary purposes for which Yahoo uses cookies include:

• Site Functionality: Cookies enable the proper functioning of Yahoo’s websites and apps, ensuring users can access the services they expect.
• User Authentication and Security: To protect user accounts and prevent spam and abusive behaviors, cookies help authenticate users and enforce necessary security measures.
• Measurement and Analytics: Yahoo collects aggregate data on the number of visitors, the type of devices being used (such as iOS or Android), the web browsers utilized, and the duration of visitors’ stays on the sites and apps. This information is used for measurement and to improve user experience but is not linked to specific individual users.

Consent and Privacy Choices

Upon accessing Yahoo’s services, users are prompted to give consent regarding the use of cookies. By clicking "Accept all," users agree to allow Yahoo and its partners to store and access information on their devices using cookies, including precise geolocation and other personal data like IP addresses and browsing information. This data is utilized for various purposes, including analytics, personalized advertising, content measurement, and audience research.

For users who prefer a more restrictive approach to their privacy, there are options available:

• Reject all: Users can choose to opt-out of all non-essential cookie usage.
• Manage privacy settings: This option allows users to customize their preferences regarding what data is collected and how it is used.

Additionally, at any point, users can withdraw their consent or modify their choices through links such as ‘Privacy & cookie settings’ or ‘Privacy dashboard’ located on Yahoo’s sites and applications.

Conclusion

Yahoo’s family of brands and their corresponding applications provide an array of services that cater to various user needs while prioritizing security and user experience. Understanding the role of cookies and user consent is vital for users who wish to navigate their digital footprint with awareness and control. For more detailed information on how Yahoo handles personal data and cookie usage, users are encouraged to refer to the company’s privacy and cookie policies.