This feature allows users to send real physical items, such as cookies, household goods and t-shirts to their friends.

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Because the script is being run in the context of the trusted web site, it has access to cookies such as session tokens, as well as any other user information available within the security context of that web site.

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Supercookies are stored in different places than regular cookies, such as within the Web browser's "cache" of previously visited websites, which is where the Microsoft ones were located.

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As with regular cookies, Flash cookies can be useful for remembering preferences, such as volume settings for videos.

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But now the world knows about that technology as well (which is why secret formulas, such as the ones for Coca-Cola and the filling in Oreo cookies, have never been patented).

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These include such foundational patents of the web as Secure Socket Layer (SSL), cookies and JavaScript.

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Both browser makers such as Microsoft and Mozilla and federal authorities are limiting or considering limiting the use of cookies, the online fingerprints that allow for billions of dollars worth of targeted ads.

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Starbucks has also adapted many products to suit Chinese tastes, such as Chai Tea Lattes, Green Tea Black Sesame Frappuccinos, Black Bean Muffins and Black Sesame Cookies.

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In that instance, Google used special computer code to install tracking files known as cookies on some people's computers even if the device was set to block such tracking.

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