Yahoo Announces Enhanced Privacy Choices for Users on Its Websites and Apps
Yahoo, a prominent member of the Yahoo brand family, which includes popular platforms such as Yahoo and Engadget along with its digital advertising service, Yahoo Advertising, has outlined its approach to user privacy and data management. As part of its ongoing commitment to transparency and user control, Yahoo has detailed how it collects and uses data through cookies and similar technologies on its owned and operated websites and applications.
Use of Cookies for Improved User Experience and Security
When users visit Yahoo’s websites or use its applications, cookies—including related technologies like web storage—are employed to store information on their devices and retrieve such information later. This process facilitates several critical functions. Cookies help make Yahoo’s services available and streamline their operation for users. They also assist in authenticating users, enforcing security measures, and preventing unwanted content and abuse. Furthermore, cookies enable Yahoo to gather aggregate data to measure site and app performance, such as the number of visitors, the type of devices used (iOS or Android), browsers, and duration of visits. Importantly, these data are collected in aggregated form and are not linked to individual users.
Expanded Data Usage with User Consent
Yahoo explains that by selecting the “Accept All” option, users consent to Yahoo and its partners—245 of whom participate in the IAB Transparency and Consent Framework—storing and accessing information on their devices. This consent also permits the use of precise geographic location data and additional personal information, such as IP addresses and browsing and search history. These data points support analytics, personalized advertising and content, ad and content measurement, audience research, and service development.
User Control over Privacy Settings
For users who prefer not to allow the use of cookies and personal data in conjunction with Yahoo’s partners for the aforementioned purposes, Yahoo offers a “Reject All” option. Additionally, users can customize their privacy preferences through a dedicated “Manage Privacy Settings” feature.
Yahoo emphasizes that consent is not permanent. Users can revoke or modify their privacy choices at any time by clicking on links titled “Privacy and Cookie Settings” or “Privacy Dashboard” available on Yahoo’s websites and within apps.
Further Information
Detailed explanations about Yahoo’s use of personal data can be found in its Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy, both accessible online. These documents provide comprehensive insights into data collection practices, user rights, and privacy protections.
Yahoo’s initiative reaffirms its focus on enhancing user trust by providing clear options and control mechanisms over personal data usage across its platforms.