Flash cookies
(also local shared objects, LSOs)
Flash cookies definition
Flash cookies are small data files that Adobe Flash Player embeds into a user’s computer to track and monitor users’ online activity across the internet. They work similarly to traditional cookies by customizing the users’ experience, but they have a significantly larger data storage capacity. Moreover, they keep track of sensitive data, such as login credentials, browsing history, and user preferences. Due to this, people see them as potential trackers. Flash cookies also recreate browser cookies users might delete, which increases the difficulty of getting rid of them. Additionally, a web browser doesn’t manage them. Thus, users are not even aware that flash cookies track their activity and may need to be removed. Hackers take advantage of the user data records that flash cookies keep.
Preventing flash cookies security risks
- Disable Adobe Flash Player. It will decrease the cyber threats flash cookies expose your sensitive data to because it won’t store it anymore.
- Use a privacy-focused browser. Some browsers like Firefox or Google Chrome come with stronger privacy protection policies that can assist in preventing flash cookie tracking.
- Be cautious with Flash content. If you choose to utilize Flash Player, you must be careful about the content you interact with. Avoid downloading files from unreliable websites or clicking on attachments you see or receive. These can be the most significant loopholes for flash cookies to use to enter your device.
- Clear your Flash cache regularly. Flash cookies may accumulate if you don’t regularly clean the Flash cache. You can do this in the Flash Player setting on your web browser.