A cookie policy is a vital part of your website’s privacy framework, especially if you operate within or target users in the European Union. Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the ePrivacy Directive, transparency is key — and that starts with a well-crafted cookie policy.
Why Is a Cookie Policy Important?
Your cookie policy informs users about how your website uses cookies and similar technologies. It plays a crucial role in:
- Gaining informed consent for non-essential cookies.
- Explaining how data is collected, stored, and shared.
- Helping users control their privacy settings.
- Ensuring compliance with applicable data protection laws.
Key Elements Your Cookie Policy Should Include
To comply with GDPR and ePrivacy requirements, your cookie policy should clearly include the following:
1. What Cookies Are
Start by explaining what cookies are in plain language. Many users are unfamiliar with technical terms, so a short and simple description is essential.
Example: Cookies are small text files placed on your device to help websites function properly and collect information about how you use the site.
2. Types of Cookies Used
List and explain the categories of cookies your website uses, such as:
• Strictly necessary cookies
• Performance/analytics cookies
• Functionality cookies
• Advertising/targeting cookies
3. Purpose of Each Cookie
Describe what each category of cookie does and why it is used. For example:
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, so we can improve the user experience.
4. Specific Cookies Used
Provide a table or list showing:
• Cookie name
• Purpose
• Provider
• Expiration period
• Type (first-party or third-party)
5. Legal Basis for Using Cookies
State the legal basis for processing data through cookies — typically user consent for non-essential cookies, and legitimate interest or contractual necessity for essential ones.
Refer to:
6. Third-Party Cookies
If third parties (e.g., Google, Facebook) set cookies via your website, you must disclose this and link to their policies where possible.
7. How Users Can Manage or Withdraw Consent
Provide clear instructions or a link to your cookie banner/settings panel where users can:
• Accept or reject cookie categories
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Access or change their preferences
8. Updates to the Cookie Policy
Mention how often you review and update the cookie policy, and how users will be informed of any changes.
9. Contact Information
Offer a way for users to reach out with questions or concerns about cookie usage.
Conclusion
A clear and complete cookie policy is more than a legal requirement — it’s a critical part of building trust with your users. Make sure your policy is written in accessible language, kept up to date, and aligned with your consent management platform (CMP).