Fact Check: "Cookie duration: 395 (days)"
What We Know
The claim that "cookie duration: 395 (days)" refers to the length of time a cookie can remain stored in a user's browser before it expires. Cookies are small data files created by websites to enhance user experience by storing information such as login states and preferences. The duration of cookies can vary significantly depending on how they are set by the website.
For instance, some sources indicate that certain cookies, like those used by Chartbeat, can have a duration of up to 395 days, particularly for users who opt-out of tracking (source-4). This means that if a user opts out, the cookie will remain in their browser for 395 days before it is deleted.
Additionally, cookies can be classified into two types: first-party cookies, which are created by the website the user is visiting, and third-party cookies, which are set by other sites that provide content on the page (source-1, source-3).
Analysis
The claim about cookie duration being 395 days is supported by specific examples, such as the Chartbeat cookie, which explicitly states this duration for users who opt-out of tracking (source-4). However, it's important to note that cookie durations are not standardized across all websites; they can vary widely based on the purpose of the cookie and the policies of the website setting it.
For example, many affiliate marketing cookies typically have a duration of around 30 days, which is significantly shorter than the 395 days mentioned in the claim (source-6). This discrepancy highlights the variability in cookie durations and suggests that while some cookies can last for extended periods, many do not.
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is generally high, as they come from established platforms like Google and Chartbeat, which are known for their expertise in web technologies and user privacy. However, the specific context of cookie duration should always be considered, as it can differ based on the website's policies and user interactions.
Conclusion
Verdict: Needs Research
While there are instances of cookies lasting for 395 days, such as those from Chartbeat, this duration is not universally applicable to all cookies. The variability in cookie durations based on their purpose and the website's policies necessitates further research to understand the broader context of cookie management. Therefore, the claim requires additional investigation to ascertain its applicability across different websites and cookie types.
