How do websites collect information?
Information can be collected in several ways, but typically “personally identifiable information” (information that can be traced to a single user) is not gathered on a widespread basis. Most information collected online is “usage data,” or data limited to where an individual visits within a site and/or how much time is spent at a particular site. Online services, for example, may track sign-on and sign-off times for billing purposes. Individual websites (whether companies or individuals) may gather certain kinds of information about you when you visit their site. Many sites limit information gathering to broad usage statistics. Some website operators may collect information about you through your e-mail address, the means by which you connect to their site, by the use of “cookies” or voluntary questions directed at users.
