The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive privacy regulation in the European Union (EU) that came into effect on May 25, 2018. One aspect of the GDPR that affects many websites is the requirement for cookie compliance.
What are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on a user’s device when they visit a website. Cookies are used to store information about the user’s activity on the website, such as login information, preferences, and shopping carts.
GDPR and Cookie Compliance
Under the GDPR, cookies are considered personal data because they can be used to track an individual’s online activity. As a result, websites are required to obtain informed consent from users before setting cookies on their devices. This means that websites must provide clear and concise information about the cookies they use, and allow users to choose whether they accept or reject cookies.
Cookie Consent
To comply with the GDPR, websites must provide users with the option to accept or reject cookies. This can be done through a pop-up or banner that informs users about the use of cookies on the website and allows them to choose whether they accept or reject them. It is important to note that under the GDPR, cookie consent must be freely given, specific, informed, and unambiguous. This means that users must have a genuine choice about whether they accept cookies, and the information provided must be clear and easy to understand.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Organizations that fail to comply with the GDPR’s requirements for cookie consent can face significant fines. The maximum fine under the GDPR is 4% of the company’s global annual revenue or €20 million, whichever is higher. In addition to fines, non-compliance can also result in reputational damage and loss of trust from customers and users.
Conclusion
GDPR cookie compliance is a critical aspect of the GDPR that affects many websites. Websites must obtain informed consent from users before setting cookies on their devices and provide clear and concise information about the cookies they use. Organizations that fail to comply with the GDPR’s requirements for cookie consent can face significant fines and reputational damage.