What is the ljt_reader cookie?
ljt_reader is an HTTP cookie set by Sovrn, a US-based adtech company (formerly known as Lijit) that provides programmatic advertising monetization services for publishers and content sites.
The cookie typically appears on sites running Sovrn advertising scripts or content widgets, or on sites partnering with services that rely on the Sovrn/Lijit infrastructure for real-time bidding (RTB) and cross-platform data exchange.
What data it stores
ljt_reader typically stores a unique identifier tied to the visitor's browser, used to recognize them on subsequent visits to sites within the Sovrn network. The exact value format is not publicly documented and may vary.
The cookie is set on the .lijit.com domain, indicating a cross-site tracking function — the identifier may be transmitted to Sovrn's servers and potentially shared with third-party advertising partners involved in programmatic bidding.
What it is used for
The main purpose of ljt_reader is visitor identification for targeted advertising and campaign performance measurement. For Sovrn, this cookie helps build interest profiles and optimize real-time ad auctions.
For the site owner, the presence of this cookie is usually tied to a partnership with Sovrn for monetizing ad space or content, generating revenue from ads shown to visitors.
Does it require consent?
ljt_reader is classified as a marketing/advertising cookie. Under the GDPR (Regulation 2016/679) and the ePrivacy Directive (transposed in Romania via Law 506/2004), this type of cookie requires the visitor's prior, explicit, and freely given consent before being placed in the browser.
Site owners must disclose this cookie in their cookie policy, include it under the "marketing" category in the consent banner, and ensure it is not set before the visitor gives consent. The Romanian data protection authority (ANSPDCP) can sanction the placement of marketing cookies without valid consent.
How to block or delete ljt_reader
A visitor can delete or block this cookie through browser settings (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari — cookie and site data management sections), or by using ad-tracker blocking extensions.
- Manually deleting cookies for the lijit.com domain
- Enabling "block third-party cookies" in the browser
- Using an anti-tracking browser extension
For site owners, the correct approach is using a consent management platform (CMP) such as CookieFix, which automatically blocks Sovrn/Lijit scripts until the visitor consents to the "marketing" category, preventing unauthorized placement of this cookie.
Frequently asked questions
It is a marketing cookie set by Sovrn (formerly Lijit) to identify visitors across its programmatic advertising network and deliver targeted ads.
It is not malicious, but it is a cross-site tracking cookie used for ad profiling, which is why it requires visitor consent under GDPR.
It typically lasts one year from when it is set, after which it expires automatically unless renewed.
Yes, as a marketing cookie it requires the visitor's prior consent, must be disclosed in your cookie policy, and its placement should be blocked until consent is given.