Netflix Cookies: What Are They and How Do They Work?

As online entertainment becomes a core part of daily life, Netflix continues to dominate the streaming space with its vast library, variety of genres and top-notch features. One key component contributing to a seamless experience is Netflix Cookies— something that works quietly in the background. 

With 300 million active users, most people do not know what these cookies are and how they work. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Netflix cookies, from meaning, functionality, and risks (if there are any). Let’s begin!

What are Netflix Cookies?

Just like any other cookies, Netflix Cookies are also the same – small text files stored on your browser by the website. Cookies for Netflix carry data that helps a website recognise users, remember sessions and personalise content. Netflix cookies contain user information, login credentials, preferences, watching history, and taste on the platform. 

When you log in to Netflix, a session cookie is generated. This cookie allows Netflix to – 

• Keep yourself logged in, and do not ask for a username and password when you visit the website next time. 
• Remember your language and preferences.
• The store recently watched titles and personalised suggestions.
• Track user browsing behaviour for analytics. 

This is exactly what Netflix cookies do. Now, look at how it impacts user experience. 

How do Netflix Cookies Work?

Netflix cookies work similarly to Amazon Prime cookies. Once you log in to your Netflix account through a web browser, the server sends cookies to your browser’s cookie storage. The stored cookies identify your identity. 

1- Seamless Login

With Netflix cookies, you do not need to enter your username and password every time you visit the website. Cookies maintain your information even after you close the browser unless they expire or are cleared. 

2- Personalised Experience 

Cookies for Netflix help you remember what you last watched, your content preferences, and your selected user profile. That’s how Netflix recommends what you like to watch. 

3- Device Recognition

If you switch between devices like a mobile, tablet and a laptop, Netflix cookies help sync your watching history. You can resume from where you left off on the previous device. 

4- Performance & Analytics 

Netflix uses cookies to monitor platform performance and gather anonymous usage data to enhance the service. For example, if someone visited the website but didn’t purchase the subscription. 

You May Also Like – Amazon Prime Cookies: A Threat or Convenience? Which is it?

The Dark Side of Netflix Cookies

While Netflix cookies improve user experience, they also have dark sides that you must know. Some people sell and purchase cookies for Netflix through online forums and the dark web marketplace for unauthorised access to premium content. However, selling and buying such access is illegal, leading to fines and imprisonment. 

Here is how it works – 

• A person logs in to their Netflix account.
• Their session cookie is extracted from their browser.
• The cookie for Netflix is shared or sold online. 
• The person who purchased the Netflix cookies imports them into their browser to access the Netflix account without requiring login credentials. 

The Risks 

• Privacy Violation – The person using your cookie can see your viewing history, saved profiles and access personal data. 
• Security Risk – Downloading cookies from an untrusted source may expose your data and device to malware, phishing and browser hijacks. 
• Account Suspension – Netflix can block or delete the account involved with cookie sharing under its security measures. 

How to Protect & Manage Netflix Cookies?

Now that you know the dark side of Netflix cookies, it’s important to learn the protection measures. Here’s how to manage cookies. 

• Clear cookies regularly 
  • Chrome: Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data
  • Firefox: Preferences > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data
  • Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data
• Use incognito mode or private browsing 
• Avoid public devices
• Don’t share cookies

Cookies Are Helpful When Used Right!

Netflix cookies are designed to improve the website and streaming experience. They save time and make streaming hassle-free. But like any other digital tool, they must be used responsibly. Sharing or using cookies from others is unethical and could compromise the security and integrity of your Netflix account. 

So next time you click on ‘Continue Watching’, it is a cookie that makes it happen.