Cookies are small text files that some Web sites use to customize pages for individual users. Many online stores use cookies to store information about your browser and choices that you have made so that you don't have to re-type the information every time that you visit the site.

Because cookies are used so often and present a small security risk, you should not block all cookies. However, it is possible for malicious Web sites to use cookies to track your browsing habits. If the cookie is from a Web site other than the one you are currently viewing, or if you do not trust the Web site, you can usually block the cookie without ill effects.

You can permit or block this site's attempts to create or read from a cookie.

If you permit it, this Web site will be able to create or read from a cookie. If you block it, the site will not be able to create or read from a cookie.

If you receive a large number of alerts when you visit trusted sites, use the Privacy Control slider to select a lower privacy level.

You can also customize your cookie protection settings for individual sites.

To customize your cookie protection settings for individual sites

1. In the main window, double-click Privacy Control.

2. In the Privacy Control window, click Advanced.

3. On the Web Content tab, click User Settings.

4. On the User Settings tab, do one of the following:

• To change cookie protection settings for a Web site in the list, select the site’s name.

• To block a string on a Web site not in the list, click Add Site, then in the New Site/Domain dialog box, type the site’s address and click OK.

5. In the Cookies section, uncheck Use Privacy settings.

6. Click Permit or Block.

7. Click OK.