What is the currency cookie?
The "currency" cookie is an HTTP cookie commonly used by online stores and multi-currency sites to remember the currency a user has selected. The generic name indicates it isn't tied to one specific provider: it can be set by e-commerce platforms (Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, PrestaShop), custom scripts, or currency-conversion widgets.
It usually appears as soon as a visitor picks a currency from the site's menu, or in some implementations, automatically based on detected location on first visit.
What data it stores
The stored value is typically a short currency code (for example "RON", "EUR", "USD"), without directly linked personal data. The exact value format varies depending on the platform or script that sets it.
The data generally stays in the visitor's browser and is sent to the server with each request to the domain that set the cookie, so prices can be displayed accordingly.
What it is used for
The cookie's purpose is purely functional: it prevents the user from having to reselect a currency on every visit or page, and keeps displayed prices consistent throughout the shopping session.
For site owners, this cookie improves user experience on stores selling across multiple countries or currencies, reducing confusion around pricing and potential conversion errors.
Does it require consent?
CookieFix classifies the "currency" cookie as preferences (functional). While not strictly necessary for the site's core technical operation, many data protection authorities, including common interpretations within the EU, treat preference cookies as requiring prior user consent under the ePrivacy Directive.
- Site owners should list it accurately in their cookie policy, with its purpose and duration.
- It should be placed in the "preferences" category of the consent banner, not "strictly necessary".
- It's advisable not to activate it before the visitor gives consent, unless there's a strict technical justification for an exception.
How to block or delete currency
A visitor can delete or block this cookie from browser settings (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari), via per-site cookie management or by clearing browsing data generally. Blocking it doesn't affect the site's core functionality, only the memorized currency choice.
For site owners, the safest approach is using a CMP like CookieFix, which automatically blocks scripts that set preference cookies until the visitor gives explicit consent, avoiding premature activation.
Frequently asked questions
It's not strictly necessary technically; the site can function without it, but visitors will need to reselect the currency each time.
Usually e-commerce platforms or currency-selector modules built into the site, rather than a single external provider.
The typical duration is 1 year, though it can vary depending on the specific site implementation.
Since it's classified as preferences, it should ideally only be activated after user consent, in line with GDPR and the ePrivacy Directive.