How to Disable and Block Cookies on Safari

If you’re looking to enhance your privacy or fix some browser glitches, adjusting your cookie settings in Safari can really help. This guide will show you how to disable and block cookies on both macOS and iOS devices, making it easy to keep your browsing smooth and secure across all your Apple devices.

Disabling Cookies in Safari on macOS

To disable cookies on your Mac:

  1. Open Safari and go to the “Safari” menu at the top of the screen, then select “Preferences.”
  2. Click on the “Privacy” tab.
  3. Check the box labeled “Block all cookies.”
  4. A warning will appear, noting that blocking all cookies may prevent websites from working properly. Confirm your choice if you agree to proceed.

Note: Disabling cookies might log you out of websites and erase preferences that streamline your browsing experience.

Disabling Cookies in Safari on iOS

It’s important to note that cookie settings on iOS devices are adjusted through the Settings app, not through Safari:

  1. Open the “Settings” app from your iOS home screen.
  2. Scroll down and tap on “Safari” to access its settings.
  3. In the “Privacy & Security” section, toggle on the “Block All Cookies” switch.
  4. An alert will inform you that some websites may not function correctly with this setting. If you understand the implications, confirm your choice.

Blocking Only Third-Party Cookies in Safari on macOS

If you prefer not to disable all cookies:

  1. Under the “Privacy” tab in Safari Preferences, select “Prevent cross-site tracking.”
  2. This setting blocks third-party cookies used for tracking but allows first-party cookies necessary for websites to function properly.

What Does Disabling or Blocking Cookies Mean?

Disabling cookies means no cookies can be stored on your device, which stops websites from saving information about your browsing session. This enhances privacy but can disrupt services that rely on cookies, such as logging in, maintaining session data, or remembering site preferences. Blocking only third-party cookies helps reduce tracking without heavily impacting site functionality.

Considerations When Disabling or Blocking Cookies

Disabling or blocking cookies can secure your online activities and prevent websites from gathering data about you. However, it may also lead to a less personalized web experience. Some sites might not load correctly, and functionalities that depend on cookies, like shopping carts or personalized settings, may not work.

Adjusting your cookie settings in Safari gives you greater control over your data and privacy online. For instructions on how to delete existing cookies, refer to how to clear cookies in Safari.

By understanding and managing your cookie settings, you can balance your needs for privacy with the functional demands of the web.

Discover the purpose and function of session cookies.