Cookies that allow unambiguous recognition of endpoint devices are one of the problematic areas in Internet privacy. Currently, cookies are regulated in the Electronic Communications Act, but their actual use in practice varies widely.
We informed you about ePrivacy, or the Electronic Communications Privacy Regulation, in a previous article. Today we will focus specifically on an area that affects almost every website operator and internet user. We will talk about cookies.
The issue of cookies is one of the most frequently discussed topics. Indeed, cookies, which allow the unique identification of a terminal device, are one of the most problematic areas in the protection of privacy on the Internet. Currently, the regulation of cookies in our country is contained in the Electronic Communications Act, but the actual use in practice varies widely.
New regulation promises simpler rules
The Regulation of the Parliament and of the Council on respect for private life and protection of personal data in electronic communications promises clearer and significantly simpler rules for the acquisition and handling of cookies. This Regulation is intended to replace the Directive known as the “cookie law” and to contain new rules on consent.
Purposes for which cookies can be used
If this regulation is adopted as presented, it will not be possible to use cookies without the active consent of the end user for purposes other than to provide functions necessary for the proper functioning of the website. At the same time, there may be an uncomfortable situation if the majority of end users of the website refuse to accept third-party cookies.
In terms of the wording itself, the draft regulation prohibits the use of the functions of end-user devices by other entities to process, store and collect information that can be obtained from them, including about software and hardware. But even within this prohibition, the new regulation provides for exceptions.
While the upcoming change to the cookie rules promises cost savings, it is not entirely clear-cut, and instead could lead to both increased costs and the loss of some user databases to targeted advertising.
Have you, as a website operator, encountered an unusual situation regarding privacy? Or is GDPR troubling you in another area? Do not hesitate to contact us, we will be happy to discuss everything with you and propose an ideal solution.