Cookie Consent

Why cookie consent management?

Since the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect, website users need to be given the opportunity to choose what cookies are saved onto their devices. This is done through a consent management system.

What is a cookie?

A cookie is a small file saved onto a user’s computer to make it easier to process data. Thanks to cookies, web analytics can tell if two page visits are part of the same session, or an advertising tool recognizes a website visitor who has clicked on an ad. Many website features require cookies to function.

For a long time, the use of cookies was unregulated and up to the consideration of each site’s developers. The GDPR, however, returns the control back to users – as it should. It’s every organization’s job to ensure that their users’ data is adequately protected.

Cookie consent is an EU requirement

The GDPR sets multiple cookie-related requirements for websites. As a starting point, only cookies that are necessary for the site’s basic functions can be saved onto a user’s device without their permission.

All other cookies, like those related to advertising or non-essential website features, require explicitly given consent. The user must be told what cookies the site is using and for what purpose. The site’s owner must be able to prove that consent has been given and the user must be able to withdraw their consent at any point.

Cookie consent with a consent management system

In practice, meeting all GDPR requirements is extremely difficult without a consent management system specifically designed for managing cookie consent. The system ensures that your site is GDPR-compliant and gives users the tools to manage their cookie settings. Cookie consent management includes:

• gathering cookie consent from website visitors
• offering users different consent options and the opportunity to change their preferences
• maintaining an up-to-date register of user consent.

At Paper Planes, we have implemented dozens of Cookie Pro consent management system installations. We’ve found CookiePro to be a suitable tool for Finnish companies looking to simplify their cookie consent management. The running costs of the service are reasonable and the installation is simple to do. CookiePro makes consent management easy and cookie consent-related elements on the site can be tailored to according to your brand guidelines.

We’re happy to help with any questions regarding cookie consent and data protection – don’t hesitate to contact us!