Design cookie and tracking policies

Design Cookie and Tracking Policies

Cookies and tracking technologies are central to how websites measure engagement and serve personalized content. Under GDPR and CPRA, companies must clearly disclose these practices, give users meaningful choice, and ensure tracking does not occur without proper consent or opt-out options.

Key Requirements

• GDPR: Requires opt-in consent before placing non-essential cookies (e.g., analytics, advertising).

• CPRA: Requires an opt-out option for selling or sharing personal information through cookies or trackers.

• Both laws demand transparency and clear language in cookie banners and policies.

Building a Cookie Banner

• Display on first visit with clear, plain language.

• Provide “Accept” and “Reject” options with equal visibility.

• Link to a detailed cookie policy.

• Remember and honor user preferences for future visits.

Crafting a Cookie Policy

• List categories of cookies: essential, functional, analytics, advertising.

• Explain the purpose of each category in simple terms.

• Identify third-party cookies and provide links to their policies.

• Describe how users can manage or withdraw consent at any time.

Example: Policy Snippet

“Our site uses cookies to improve your experience, analyze traffic, and deliver personalized ads. You can manage your preferences at any time by selecting Accept or Reject in our cookie banner or by visiting your cookie settings.”

Implementing Tracking Controls in Practice

Consent storage

// Store cookie consent in localStorage
localStorage.setItem("cookieConsent", JSON.stringify({ analytics: false, ads: true }));

Blocking scripts until consent

<script type="text/plain" data-cookie="analytics">
  // Google Analytics or other tracking code
</script>

Opt-out link for CPRA

<a href="/privacy#do-not-sell">Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information</a>

Quick Cookie & Tracking Checklist

• Provide opt-in for non-essential cookies (GDPR)

• Offer opt-out for selling/sharing personal data (CPRA)

• Use clear, balanced cookie banner design

• Maintain an up-to-date cookie policy with third-party disclosures

• Store and respect user preferences consistently

Conclusion

Well-designed cookie and tracking policies turn a compliance burden into an opportunity to build trust. By giving users clear control over their data and honoring their choices, companies demonstrate transparency while staying ahead of regulatory requirements.