How to Add a Cookie Consent to Your Site: A Step-by-Step Guide

Today, nearly every website uses cookies to enhance the user experience. Cookies are small text files that websites store on users’ devices. They help sites remember visit information such as language preferences, login details, or the contents of a shopping cart. Thanks to cookies, using websites becomes more convenient and personalized.

However, given the importance of data privacy and users’ rights to confidentiality, many countries have introduced strict legal requirements for the use of cookies. For example, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union requires websites to obtain explicit consent from visitors before using most types of cookies. Similar laws are in effect in other regions, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States.

In light of these regulations, having a cookie consent on your site is not just desirable but mandatory. This consent not only ensures compliance with the law but also increases user trust, as it demonstrates transparency in handling their personal data. A cookie consent informs visitors about which cookies are used on the site, what they are for, and how users can manage their privacy settings. In this article, we will review how to properly add a cookie consent to your site, paying attention to various legal requirements around the world.

Why Adding a Cookie Consent Is Necessary

Adding a cookie consent to your website is an important step not only for legal compliance but also for improving user interaction. Let’s explore the key aspects of this process in more detail.

Key Legal Acts Regulating Cookie Use:

• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Applies to the processing of personal data of European Union residents.
• California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA): Regulates the collection and use of personal data of California residents.
• ePrivacy Directive: Specifically focuses on the rules for using cookies and privacy in electronic communications within the EU.
• Upcoming ePrivacy Regulation: Will supplement the GDPR by providing more specific requirements for privacy and communication.

By understanding these regulations and implementing a clear cookie consent mechanism, you ensure that your website respects user privacy while remaining compliant with relevant laws.

How to Add a Custom Cookie Usage Agreement to Your Site?

WEBSET — no-code service

To use WEBSET for creating a cookie notice on your site, you need to sign up on the platform and utilize its banner creation tool. WEBSET allows you to create and customize banners without writing any code, making it a convenient solution for notifying users about cookies. You can configure the banner’s design, text, and display conditions to inform site visitors about the use of cookies and compliance with personal data legislation.

Additionally, WEBSET allows you to add various marketing widgets such as pop-ups, engaging video widgets, and much more.

CookieYes

Main Features:

• Automatic detection and categorization of cookies.
• A fully customizable cookie consent widget that easily integrates with your site.
• Support for GDPR, CCPA, and other international privacy regulations.

Pricing:
A free basic plan is available, while paid plans start at approximately $9 per month and increase based on page views and features.

Cookiebot

Main Features:

• An automatic cookie scanner that identifies and classifies all cookies on your site.
• Cookie consent support in compliance with GDPR, CCPA, and the ePrivacy Directive.
• Detailed consent reports to demonstrate regulatory compliance.

Pricing:
Offers a free plan for small sites with a limited number of pages. Paid plans start at €9 per month and are designed for larger sites and advanced needs.

OneTrust

Main Features:

• Comprehensive consent management, including cookies, third-party scripts, and mobile apps.
• Adapts to numerous regulatory requirements, including GDPR, CCPA, and more specific laws worldwide.
• Advanced analytics tools for tracking consent and user interactions.

Pricing:
OneTrust does not publicly disclose pricing, requiring an individual inquiry. Plans generally start at a higher price point, considering the complexity and scalability of the solutions.

Conclusion

Implementing a cookie consent on your site not only helps ensure compliance with legal requirements but also builds user trust by demonstrating transparency in handling their data. An effective consent should be clear, accessible, and informative, giving users full control over their data. By avoiding common mistakes such as complicated legal jargon or denying users choice, you can improve the user experience and strengthen your reputation. Remember that adapting to constantly changing legal requirements is a key aspect of ensuring the long-term success of your online presence.