GDPR Cookie Compliance Basics

When building websites for European audiences, understanding the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) cookie requirements is essential. This guide covers the fundamental aspects of GDPR cookie compliance.

What is GDPR?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive privacy law that came into effect on May 25, 2018. It governs how businesses handle personal data of EU citizens and residents.

Cookie Consent Requirements

Under GDPR, websites using non-essential cookies must:

• Obtain explicit consent before placing cookies
• Provide clear and detailed information about cookie usage
• Make it as easy to withdraw consent as it is to give it
• Document all consent received from users

Types of Cookies Under GDPR

Cookies fall into different categories based on their purpose:

Essential Cookies

These cookies are necessary for website functionality and don't require explicit consent. Examples include:

• Session cookies for shopping carts
• Authentication cookies
• Security cookies

Non-Essential Cookies

These cookies require explicit consent before they can be placed:

• Analytics cookies
• Advertising and tracking cookies
• Social media cookies

Implementing Proper Cookie Consent

A GDPR-compliant cookie consent solution should:

1. Block non-essential cookies until consent is given
2. Allow granular choices for different cookie categories
3. Provide easy access to your privacy policy
4. Log consent for proof of compliance
5. Allow users to change preferences at any time

Common Compliance Mistakes

Avoid these common errors in your cookie implementation:

• Using pre-checked boxes (not considered valid consent)
• Cookie walls that prevent access without consent
• Unclear or technical language in cookie notices
• Auto-expiring cookie banners
• No easy way to withdraw consent

Next Steps

Implementing proper cookie consent is just one part of GDPR compliance. You should also:

• Create a comprehensive privacy policy
• Implement data protection measures
• Have processes for handling data subject requests
• Regularly audit your data processing activities

Stay tuned for more in-depth guides on cookie compliance and privacy regulations!