"Keep me logged in" extended to one year

On Tue. August 16, 2016 we will change login sessions to last one year, only for users who select "Keep me logged in" on the login screen. Currently, it lasts 30 days in that case.

Users who do not check "Keep me logged in" will not be affected.

What is the reason for the change?
When users explicitly opt in to a longer session, it's useful to do so for longer than 30 days.

Does this affect cookies that are not related to login?
No, it does not.

Which wikis does this apply to?
It applies to all WMF wikis.

If my wiki shows the "Keep me logged in" time period, will that be accurate?
As long as you are currently using the parameter, it will still work. If it is hard-coded, it should be changed to use the parameter. By default, it does not show the time period, but any wiki can choose to show it by editing MediaWiki:Userlogin-remembermypassword.

Will existing login sessions be affected immediately?
Existing sessions will not be affected. Users will not be logged out early, and existing sessions will not be extended. It will take effect the next time you login with "Keep me logged in" checked.

Does this comply with the Privacy Policy?
Yes, Legal has verified this.