Tracking Cookies-Newbie Question

Hi

A recent scan with A2 and Ad-Aware resulted in the presence of infected files (2 and 3 files respectively) and were described as 'Tracking Cookies'. These were quickly despatched to cookie hell.
Ad-Aware described these as a relatively low level of threat.
Can anyone explain the difference between a common or garden cookie and a 'tracking'cookie, and advise if the 'low threat level' tag is exactly that (basically what is the threat level of a tracking cookie either perceived or real in terms of personal privacy for someone who has adopted a robust/multilayered approach to security)

Cheers
ftwynne59

 

A Tracking Cookie, also known as a Spyware Cookie, is any Cookie that is placed on your computer by a 3rd party not directly related to the web site you're currently viewing. The intention of this cookie is to track your movement as you surf between sites.

Tracking Cookies are mainly used to collect data regarding user tendencies such as Web Sites visited and behavioral activity. This valuable marketing data can then be used by the 3rd party to display highly targeted advertisements via Adware and/or Spyware Software.

It should be noted that some Web Sites do require you to accept Cookies in order to function properly. These types of Site Specific Cookies are typically harmless and do not need to be removed.