Everytime I run a scan I get a tracking cookie, although it's listed as a low threat potential.?

Question

is it a form of keylogging

Answer 1

A tracking cookie is any cookie used for tracking users’ surfing habits.  Tracking cookies are very common and they have nothing to do with key-logging.  We all pick up tracking cookies from every site we visit.  They are typically used by advertisers wishing to analyze and manage advertising data, but they may be used to profile and track user activity more closely. However, tracking cookies are simply a text file, and far more limited in capability than executable software installed on users’ computers (such as spyware, malware, or a virus).  While installed software can potentially record any data or activity on a computer, cookies are simply a record of visits or activity with a single Website or its affiliated sites.  Unless you have a software program which prevents tracking cookies (which I have), everyone will find them when the scan.  They are rated as a low threat potential because really they are harmless; although I don't like the idea that my surfing habits are being tracked.  The ad companies want to know what sites gets the most traffic, how often you visit that site, etc. - just collecting data so that they can place their ads at sites that get the most exposure for their particular product.