FewCookies

Cookie glossary · Marketing

What is the ref- cookie?

Outbrain cookie used for advertising and for tracking visitors across sites. It is set by Outbrain and classified as "Marketing". Requires consent.

At a glance

Provider Outbrain
Category Marketing
Consent required? Yes
Typical domain .outbrain.com

How FewCookies handles this cookie

FewCookies recognises ref- from our database of 1,300+ known cookies and classifies it automatically as "Marketing". The free check tells you whether this cookie is detected on your site and whether your banner handles it correctly — an instant, surface-level check, no account needed.

Check your site for free →

Frequently asked questions

Do you need consent for the ref- cookie?

Yes. ref- is a "Marketing" cookie, so it is not strictly necessary. Under the ePrivacy Directive (2002/58/EC) and Romania's Law 506/2004, you must obtain the visitor's explicit consent before setting it.

What does the ref- cookie do?

Outbrain cookie used for advertising and for tracking visitors across sites.

Who sets the ref- cookie?

The ref- cookie is associated with Outbrain and is classified as marketing.