Cookie Legislation Update

The current law around Cookies, as enforced by the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) states that all websites should communicate with their visitors the use of Cookies on their sites.

There is currently a large amount of debate around this new legislation, which has recently been relaxed enabling website owners to display a simple message saying that the site uses Cookies with a link showing further information to explain which Cookies are used upon the site. Previously the legislation stated that the user had to be explicitly asked for consent and agreement had to be given via methods such as pop up boxes and tick boxes.

Many companies have chosen to simply display a message regarding the use of cookies on their sites, as if the opt-in approach is adopted then results gained from Google Analytics will be affected. Many people are wary when using the Internet and do not like agreeing to things which they have little or no understanding of. However with analytics tracking being of significant importance for SEO and PPC campaigns many companies are not willing to disadvantage themselves with a drop in reporting.

The approach which we are advising companies to work towards is to communicate that Cookies are used on the site. We advise that this communication is explicit on the homepage, with then further links to explain what a Cookie is and how it works. – Within this information companies can also explain exactly which Cookies their site uses. For an example of this please see our notification and cookie policy at the bottom of the page. 

For detailed information on the new policy click here  

If you have any queries regarding Cookies please contact a member of the Fast Floor team on 01858 461 300