iOS 10.3 Safari cookies won't delete

Is anyone having any issues with cookies in 10.3 Safari? Cookies don't seem to delete when I try to remove them using all the delete methods. Additionally, when I block cookies, cookies still get stored.


May be cookies settings have changed and I need to change something. Does anyone know?

iPhone 6s

Posted on Mar 30, 2017 4:40 PM

Reply
202 replies

Jan 17, 2018 4:07 AM in response to bjgtab

Please elaborate on why you think your iPhone is unfit for purpose due to the existence of a small bug in clearing cookies, which has subsequently been fixed in the latest version.


It's worth noting that the existence of this bug has only been revealed due to its exploitation by companies attempting track your browsing history at all costs using ethically questionable methods, IE: ever cookies, supercookies etc.

Jan 16, 2018 9:29 AM in response to gn07816

Just upgraded to iOS 11.2.2. It is worth noting each update clears zero byte cookies - which is good. Remember those with exotic resolves which need to be repeated every so often, likewise, each OS update - more about rampant security issues rather than iPhone 6 series owners - does clear zero byte residual cookies, but the jury is still out whilst we wait for a definitive commitment from Apple on this subject! This matter already detailed yet Apple support remain frustratingly silent and whilst it is clearly a support issue we must continue using this medium to express a determination to remonstrate justifiable critique over support failure. It may seem trivial but it is issues such as this which make the loudest noises!

Apr 13, 2017 7:54 AM in response to DontFailMeApple

The inability to delete certain cookies appears to be a bug in Safari and we all hope Apple is on this.


You will see in my threads that I found some persistent cookies--that previously would not delete--can be removed by visiting the site of the persistent cookie, go to Settings | Safari | Advanced | Website Data and manually remove the cookie. This only seems to work while Safari is still on that site. Additionally, while Safari is set to block cookies [ Settings | Safari | Block Cookies | Always Block ], 0 bytes cookies still get stored in Website Data.


I've learned more through additional trials:

  • A google.com persistent cookie will not remove using the method noted above, all other google tracking cookies do remove
  • 0 bytes cookies return data to web sites in that domain; I tested with a simple .cgi page and was able to return that the cookie exists, it just has no data
  • Resets [ Settings | General | Reset ] do not remove persistent cookies

Mar 30, 2017 11:13 PM in response to DontFailMeApple

Read this article : Clear the history and cookies from Safari on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

and follow the steps in the article .

Block cookies

A cookie is a piece of data that a site puts on your device, so it can remember you when you visit again. Here's how to choose whether Safari blocks cookies:

  1. Tap Settings > Safari > Block Cookies.
  2. Choose an option: Always Block, Allow from Current Websites Only, Allow from Websites I Visit, or Always Allow.

If you block cookies, some web pages might not work. Here are some examples:

  • You might not be able to sign in to a site using your correct username and password.
  • You might see a message that cookies are required or that your browser's cookies are off.
  • Some features on a site might not work.

Best settings is allow from websites I visit : Safari for Mac: Manage cookies and website data using Safari

If you choose always block :

Always block: Safari doesn’t let any websites, third parties, or advertisers store cookies and other data on your Mac. This may prevent some websites from working properly.

And , if allow from websites I visit is selected : Safari accepts cookies and website data only from websites you visit. Safari uses your existing cookies to determine whether you have visited a website before. Selecting this option helps prevent websites that have embedded content in other websites you browse from storing cookies and data on your Mac.

Jan 9, 2018 6:36 AM in response to Tom_Tom

As I only have PC's I will follow your procedure and report back.

However, like previous "solutions" the obvious issue remains unresolved.

Firstly, we all have paid Apple for an effective OS to fulfil its role and resolves commands operated by users.

Secondly, you may have fallen into an unfortunate trap. Having devised a solution it is, I regret, limited! You are required periodically, to return and repeat the process. In other words this is no "lifetime" solution. As I have repeatedly pointed out - despite a moderators attempt to claim otherwise - Apple's failure to resolve this issue makes the iPhone unfit for purpose and is a task Apple should fix. That said recent issues appear to be of far greater concern. They've had our money now is the time to fulfil their commitment - oh how I wish they would!

Jan 16, 2018 7:40 AM in response to gn07816

Thanks for the responses Ive received, but it seems the only potential solution is to upgrade to 11.2. Does anyone know if I upgrade to 11.2 (from 10.3.3). on an Iphone SE, will it have desired result eg removing zombie cookies? Also can anyone confirm if 11.2 has other undesirable problems - Ive seen many of those who have upgraded reported a range of other problems in 11.2 eg battery drainage and other bugs??


Please can you answer with reference to Iphone SE. Thanks


PS Does anyone know of apples email address for Support as cant find it anywhere

Jan 16, 2018 1:20 PM in response to Ryanthered

It seems a very drastic measure, enough to demonstrate to those in their "ivory tower" that their error - I assure you it is - have supplied a product unfit for purpose. You have to question how you would respond if the roles were reversed? Any solution, is the sole responsibility of the Operating System developer. They already protect themselves from loss of data and other consequences but they are completely responsible to ensure fitness for purpose. Why should users be compelled to undertake remedial action to circumvent developer failure? You may consider this to be a fruitless answer, perhaps Apple would like to contribute?

Jan 17, 2018 2:13 AM in response to bjgtab

Thanks for reply. Was your upgrade to 11.2 from an Iphone SE or another model? Any problems with battery drainage or any other significant problems? Also there seems to be a performance decline when upgrading to 11.2.2

eg see https://www.forbes.com/sites/gordonkelly/2018/01/09/apple-ios-11-2-2-release-sho uld-you-upgrade/#7147e64a65ec


Theres a suggestion to remain at IOS 10 for timebeing

Jan 17, 2018 2:17 AM in response to Ryanthered

@Ryanthered. Thanks for replying. When you say complete reinstall, did you have to set up a new Icloud account? If this is a complete reinstall, then how do you recover all your contacts, Apps, etc etc?? Or can you do a complete reinstall first, then restore from Itunes to a point previous point before cookies problems started?? IE you do *not* back up your phone first as this will also back up the problem.


If anyone has tried this method, please do share.

Jan 17, 2018 5:19 AM in response to gn07816

The thing is...

Every new iPhone means enhanced performance, supported by an upgraded OS taking advantage of new features. The downside: Apple fails to adequately support its predecessor, degradation is the inevitable casualty. The amount of "fixes" "work arounds" "did you try this" "this worked for me" - forums are full of it! The responsibility lies with Apple. There is a tornado of vultures just waiting to offer solutions and users ready to try anything to get their iPone working. In the end there is only one option! Smart phones arr evolving, technology too, perhaps budgeting for max 3 years, is the basis for your next upgrade, in the meantime we have to accept the inevitable.

Jan 17, 2018 11:45 AM in response to Tom_Tom

I'm sorry but your observation is erroneous. I can validate all my remarks and support statements made. When a situation looses its integrity the issue moves from fact to fiction. I am able to prove all statements made. Your further comments must be qualified with facts likewise. A bug is a bug - I bought a device which has failed considerably, My investment was, for me, considerable, I expect it to function as specified. "Small bugs" cost lives, magnitude is irrelevant. No point in any further discussion as your arrogance is contradictory.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

iOS 10.3 Safari cookies won't delete

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