Cookie Law Guidance Notes

Cookie Law Guidance Notes

Cookie Law Guidance Notes

Introduction

These Cookie Law Guidance Notes (“Guidance Notes”) provide information and guidance on the use of cookies on websites, in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. These notes aim to assist website owners and operators in complying with cookie-related regulations.

Definition of Cookies

Cookies are small text files that are stored on a user’s device when they visit a website. These files contain data that can be accessed by the website during subsequent visits.

Legal Framework

The use of cookies is governed by the Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003 (PECR), which implement the EU ePrivacy Directive in the UK.

Compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is also essential when processing personal data through cookies.

Consent Mechanisms

Consent for cookie usage must be obtained from website visitors. Consent should be clear, informed, and provided through affirmative action.

Employ mechanisms such as cookie banners or pop-ups to inform users about cookie usage and seek their consent before cookies are placed on their devices.

Types of Cookies

Provide clear information about the types of cookies used on the website, including essential cookies, functional cookies, and performance cookies.

Clearly distinguish between first-party cookies (set by the website being visited) and third-party cookies (set by a domain other than the one being visited).

Cookie Policies

Maintain a comprehensive and accessible Cookie Policy on the website. The policy should outline the purpose of each type of cookie, their lifespan, and how users can manage or disable them.

Keep the Cookie Policy up-to-date and ensure it reflects any changes in the website’s use of cookies.

User Control

Provide users with the option to manage their cookie preferences, including the ability to accept or reject certain types of cookies.

Allow users to withdraw their consent at any time and provide clear instructions on how to do so.

Record Keeping

Maintain records of user consents for cookie usage to demonstrate compliance with the law.

Regularly review and update records as necessary, particularly when making changes to the website’s cookie usage.

Conclusion

These Cookie Law Guidance Notes aim to assist website owners in aligning their practices with the laws of England and Wales. Adhering to these guidelines will contribute to transparent and lawful use of cookies, ensuring a positive user experience and compliance with relevant regulations.

George Harris