Privacy Policy FAQ

About Privacy and Security

What is a privacy policy?: A privacy policy is a public statement issued by a website or company which fully discloses what information may be collected in the course of a person's interaction with that website or company. Typically, information about how the information may be collected, how the individual may opt-out of such collection, how the company or website intends to use that information and what security measures are employed to keep it safe are also included. Read Macromedia's Privacy Policy here.; back to top
Why should consumers pay attention to privacy policies on a company’s website?: To stay safe when browsing online, it's important that consumers read and understand privacy policies of websites they visit in order to make informed choices about their online activities and avoid a possible encroachment of their rights to privacy.; back to top
What is the difference between privacy and security?: Privacy and security are very much alike - both relate to the safety of sensitive information. Privacy refers to the collection and use of your personal information, whereas web site security is a system of safeguards that prevent unauthorized parties from reading or modifying information in secured areas.; back to top
What are adware, spyware and cookies?: Adware and Spyware are software applications that may violate your privacy, hiding on your computer without your knowledge. Cookies are browser-based mechanism which allows websites to store small bits of information, hence the moniker "cookies", on your computer. Cookies are usually safe, and are commonly used for website personalization or to help websites identify repeat visitors.; back to top

Privacy and Flash Player

What is Flash Player?: Macromedia Flash Player is software that lets you view Flash content on websites, such as animations, video, and enhanced visual effects. It is also used on websites for applications like shopping carts, games, and other interactive experiences. Flash Player is commonly pre-installed on newer computers along with web browsers and other software.; back to top
Is Flash Player adware/spyware?: No. Flash Player is neither adware nor spyware. Flash Player will not collect any information about you for any purpose.; back to top
Does Flash Player compromise my privacy and security?: No. Flash Player is not only the most widely distributed piece of software on the Internet today, it's also one of the most secure. Given that Flash Player is in use by over 500 million internet users we invest considerable effort into keeping Flash Player safe and secure.; back to top
Macromedia makes Flash Player, therefore isn’t Macromedia responsible for all the content and uses of the Player?: No. Just as browsers and their makers are not responsible for the content or actions of websites you view with them, Macromedia is not responsible for all Flash content you view with Flash Player.; back to top
Flash local shared objects have been discussed in the news, what are they? Why not just get rid of them?: Flash local shared objects, sometimes called "Flash LSOs" or "Flash cookies," are similar to browsers cookies in that they are a way for websites to store information for later use. A website may only read information that it has previously written, so there's no way that local shared objects can obtain personally identifying information.; Websites that use local shared objects often offer a better experience, for example by letting you personalize the look and feel of a website that you frequently visit. However as a Flash Player user you always have the ability to get rid of shared objects that may be on your computer any time you want. Read detailed step-by-step instructions in this TechNote on Disabling Local Shared Objects.; back to top

Steps You Can Take

How can I protect myself against malicious people trying to utilize browser and player technologies?: Make sure you trust the websites you visit before performing any potentially unsafe actions such as downloading content or allowing programs to be installed. Know your rights: read privacy and security statements and ensure you understand their implications. Learn about the companies which make the software you use to help you build trust; we encourage you to explore our site and learn more about Macromedia and our business.; back to top
How do I turn off/disable shared objects and cookies?: Shared objects, or "Flash cookies," can be cleared or turned off via the Flash Player Settings Manager, an application similar to your browser settings where cookies can be disabled. The Settings Manager lets you delete shared objects and set your shared object preferences (such as your desire to be prompted, permissions, and storage limits) for all websites or only specific ones. Read detailed step-by-step instructions in this TechNote on Disabling Local Shared Objects.; back to top
How can I configure Flash Player to help control adware, spyware, and/or cookies?: Flash Player allows you to configure what Flash content on websites you visit can do, including local shared objects and settings for your camera and microphone. The Flash Player Help contains instructions on setting these preferences via the Settings Manager.; back to top
How do I remove Flash Player from my system?: Uninstallers for Macromedia Flash Player can be found in the Flash Player Support Center. These uninstallers will remove Flash Player from your system completely.; back to top
How can I stay up-to-date on the future news about Flash Player and Privacy?: Visit the Flash Player Security and Privacy pages for up-to-date information as it becomes available.; back to top