04/23/2026
Quick tech tip from Midcoast Mobile Repair (a companion post to what I spoke about on WABI TV5 news this morning):
Those “cookie” pop-ups you see on websites aren’t (just) about snacks. They’re permission screens that ask what a website is allowed to save on your device and what it’s allowed to share with other companies.
What are cookie banners?
They’re the boxes that say “We use cookies” with buttons like Accept, Reject, or Manage choices.
Why do they exist?
A lot of websites now have to ask permission before using certain kinds of tracking. That’s why you’re seeing these banners everywhere.
The only 3 categories you need to understand
1. Necessary / Essential
Helps the site function (logins, shopping cart, security). Usually can’t be turned off.
2. Preferences / Functional
Remembers settings (language, region, text size).
3. Analytics + Advertising / Marketing (this is the tracking part)
Used to measure you and show targeted ads, often by sharing data with third parties.
What should you click?
If you want less tracking (what I recommend for most people):
✅ If there’s a “Reject All” button — tap it.
✅ If there isn’t, tap “Manage choices” and turn OFF anything that says:
* Marketing / Advertising
* Personalization
* Third-party
* Tracking
* (Optional) Analytics if you want to be stricter
Leave Necessary/Essential ON so the site still works.
Quick tip that helps on iPhone
If you use Safari on an iPhone:
Settings → Safari → Prevent Cross-Site Tracking (ON)
If you’re ever unsure, the simple rule is:
Reject when you can. Manage when you have to.