Marketing

"initref" Cookie

Description

Used by Reddit to deliver advertising

Details

Cookie Name: initref
Category: Marketing
Service: Reddit
Duration: session
Data Source: Open cookie db

Consent Requirement

This cookie is classified as marketing/advertising. It requires explicit user consent under virtually all privacy regulations including GDPR, CCPA, and ePrivacy.

Consent Requirements by Regulation

GDPR & ePrivacy (EU)

Explicit prior consent is required before setting initref. Advertising and tracking cookies are never covered by the strictly necessary exemption.

UK GDPR & PECR

Explicit consent is required before setting initref.

CCPA/CPRA (California)

Setting initref for cross-context behavioural advertising is treated as sharing personal information: provide a "Do Not Sell or Share" opt-out and honour the Global Privacy Control signal.

Managing initref with a Consent Banner

A consent management platform keeps initref blocked until the visitor opts in to the marketing category. Kukie.io's scanner detects it automatically, categorises it, and the banner's auto-blocking holds back the script that sets it until consent is given - visitors who decline never receive it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the initref cookie require consent?

Yes. initref is a marketing cookie and requires explicit prior consent under GDPR, PECR, and the ePrivacy rules, plus a sale/share opt-out under CCPA/CPRA.

How long does the initref cookie last?

initref typically persists for session. The exact lifetime can vary with the site's configuration and the version of the script that sets it.

Who sets the initref cookie?

initref is set by Reddit. It is categorised as marketing.

How do I block or delete the initref cookie?

Visitors can delete initref at any time through their browser's cookie settings. Site owners can keep it blocked until consent with a consent management platform: Kukie.io's auto-blocking holds marketing cookies back until the visitor opts in.