What Is a Cookie?

A "cookie" is a small data file stored on a user's device to record information about website visits and downloads. Cookies help websites remember various types of user data, such as location, language preferences, and user behavior for targeted advertising purposes. As a result, cookies enable websites to recognize returning users and provide a more personalized experience.
Since cookies can collect personal data, website owners or data controllers are required to inform users and obtain explicit consent before using cookies, in compliance with data protection laws like the PDPA.

Why Cookie Management and Categorization Matters

Different types of cookies collect different types of personal data, and the level of legal protection under the PDPA depends on the cookie’s purpose, the data it collects, and whether it's shared with third parties. Therefore, accurately categorizing cookies is important to determine how strictly each type must be regulated and how user consent should be handled.

Cookie Categories

Cookies are generally classified into two main types:

Necessary Cookies

These are essential for basic website functions and security — for example, user authentication (login) or online payments via e-payment systems.

Non-Necessary Cookies

These are not essential for core functionality, and under PDPA, they require user consent before being activated. They include:
Analytics / Statistics / Performance Cookies Used for gathering and reporting website traffic statistics.
Preferences / Functional Cookies Remember user settings like login state or language preference to improve user experience.
Marketing Cookies Often from third-party advertisers, used to track users and show relevant targeted ads.

Consent Models

Necessary Cookies can be enabled by default, as they are essential for the website to operate.
Non-Necessary Cookies (e.g., Analytics, Marketing) require explicit user consent under PDPA before being activated.

You can learn more about how to manage cookies and configure their categories here:
Manage Cookies Guide

Updated on: 30/05/2025