Does the PREF cookie need consent?

Usually yes. PREF is a functional cookie, and unless it is strictly necessary for a feature the visitor asked for, it needs consent before it is set.

How long does the PREF cookie last?

PREF usually lasts 10 years from set/ update. The exact lifetime depends on the site's settings and the version of the script that sets it.

Who sets the PREF cookie?

PREF is set by Youtube. It is in the Functional category.

How do I block or delete the PREF cookie?

Visitors can delete PREF in their browser's cookie settings. On your own website, a consent banner can keep the script that sets it waiting until the visitor accepts functional cookies. Kukie.io's banner does this for known trackers by default, and for any other script you tag with its category.

Functional

PREF cookie

Set by Youtube.

What it does

This cookie stores your preferences and other information, in particular preferred language, how many search results you wish to be shown on your page, and whether or not you wish to have Google’s SafeSearch filter turned on.

Cookie name: PREF
Category: Functional
Provider: Youtube
Duration: 10 years from set/ update
Data source: Open Cookie Database (opens in a new tab)

Consent

Usually needed

PREF is in the Functional category. Functional cookies usually need the visitor's consent, unless the cookie is strictly necessary for something the visitor asked for, such as remembering a language they just chose.

GDPR and ePrivacy (EU): Consent is needed before setting PREF, unless it is strictly necessary for a feature the visitor asked for, such as remembering a language they just chose.
UK GDPR and PECR: The same as in the EU: consent first, unless the cookie qualifies for the strictly necessary exemption.
CCPA and CPRA (California): Disclose PREF in your privacy policy. If the data it stores is shared with third parties, honour opt-out requests, including the Global Privacy Control signal.

Managing PREF with a consent banner

A consent banner can keep the script that sets PREF waiting until the visitor accepts functional cookies. Kukie.io's cookie scanner finds PREF and sorts it into a category. The banner holds back known trackers by default, and any other script you tag with its category waits too.

Learn more about script blocking

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