Cookie Notice

This notice explains what cookies are, how they’re used on our Post Office websites and where third parties are also involved.

  • Cookies and how they work

    When you visit a website, a small file called a cookie is saved onto the device you’re using. Most cookies need your permission – or ‘Consent’ – first. But some (usually session cookies) are essential so don’t need Consent.

    When you next visit the same website, the cookie it placed on your device is retrieved.

    There are several different types of cookie for different purposes. Some help the site load faster or be more personalised to your interests, preferences and the adverts you might like to see. Others help us improve our websites and user experience.

    Some provide security and prevent fraud and are strictly necessary to give you access to the information or services you’re requesting online.

  • Our approach to cookies

    At Post Office, we’re continually checking and improving how we present our content to you. Cookies are one of the ways we can give you our best possible website experience.

    Everyone is unique, with their own preferences. Cookies allow us to distinguish you from other users of the website. We can tailor the adverts you see. Understand the pages you’re most interested in. Remember your login details so you need only type them in once. All for a better browsing experience.

    Whether cookies require your Consent or not, we’ll always tell you how we’re using them here in our cookie policy. Like any technology, they can change over time, so check back regularly for the latest on how they’re used.

  • Cookies are a choice you make per device

    So, if you access the same web page on different devices (a phone, tablet, laptop or desktop, for instance), you need to set your cookie preferences for each device.

    If you say no to advertising cookies on a laptop, for example, you’ll still get adverts on your phone if you’ve not chosen the same preferences for it.

  • The difference categories of cookies

    There are two categories of cookie:

    Session cookies are only active while you visit a website. They usually make sure your visit's secure or save things while you’re there – like items in your shopping basket. As soon as you close your browser, these cookies are deleted.

    Persistent cookies stay stored on your device until their expiry date (if they have one) or you delete them. They usually capture what you do on the site, the pages you view, how long for, and your marketing and advertising preferences.

  • What type of data do cookies contain?

    The types of data stored in cookies will depend on their purpose and specific websites. This list isn’t exhaustive, but examples are:

    • Websites you visit/browsing history
    • The type of device you use
    • Software and hardware on your device
    • A unique ID
    • A session ID
    • A session start and end time
    • Specific pages you look at
    • The date you visit the website
    • The cookie’s expiry date
    • Passwords and usernames
    • Your preferences
    • Your IP address
  • How do I give permission 'Consent' for using cookies?

    If cookies need your consent, you can give it in several ways:

    • On your fist visit to our site, click the box or boxes that pop up to allow us to use them (we’ll ask again from time to time too)
    • You can also enable cookies within the settings of the browser you’re using – like Google Chrome, Safari or Mozilla Firefox

    If you would like to change or review your preferences, please Change Preferences

  • How do I withdraw permission 'Consent' for using cookies?

    To withdraw consent for cookies:

    • You can go into your browser settings and change the cookie choices you've made
    • You may need to remove the persistent cookie text files that have an expiry date in the future
    • Deselect or reselect alternative choices, with tick boxes, where those options exist

    If you would like to change or review your preferences please Change Preferences

  • Need help?

    Here’s how to manage your cookie choices on some of the most popular browsers.

    Google Chrome

    Apple Safari

    Mozilla Firefox

    Microsoft Edge