Some of you might be aware that a new piece of legislation is being introduced (and enforced) on the 26th May 2012.
The Legislation (more details here).
What does it mean?
Basically in gist a “cookie” is a small piece of code that is placed on the users computer to enhance the users experience on that website
Whilst it can sound scary most cookies are far from scary at all; for example:
When shopping online – Amazon.co.uk, and you put something in your cart – that information is stored within a cookie so that when you log in your cart holds that newest item – otherwise you would have to re add it.
There are lots of other cookies that are used around the place, some to determine what browser you are using so that the website you see is the best for your browser, or maybe if you are using a mobile, the most often used one however is for Google Analytics.
Now for most “users” that won’t mean much to you – however for all website owners and businesses this is where the problems start.
Google Analytics basically stores the information about – where you found the site from (search engine? and if yes what phrase did you enter to get there), what page you viewed first and last, how long you spent on the site, and also whether you have been here before or are you knew.
Now none of this information is that intrusive (well I don’t think so) but for a business owner its invaluable as you can “test and measure” your marketing – how people are finding your site – what keywords are being typed in Google (or other search engines), or maybe that new advert placed in the site – are people clicking on it.
Now however from 26th May of this year – EVERY site uses Google analytics will have to display a “consent” to give the user the option to allow cookies or not.
So yes that means everytime to go to a site you will see a box that says something like
Do you consent to receiving Google Analytics cookies? We use these to aid in improving and maintaining our website. We will remember this preference until you close your browser. More info YES/NO
How annoying is that going to get!!
So does this mean that statistics will start to mean less and less?
Would you click Yes? or No?
Is that extra click going to get in the way of your website and your websites message (probably!)
Online shopping
Luckily though those that use cookies which are deemed “strictly necessary” don’t have to post this message – although I believe “strictly necessary” is an arguable term. shopping basket cookies seem to be classed as such however.
Why bother?
Basically if you don’t you could be fined up to £500,000 <- yes that is a lot!!
Luckily there are people out that that have created tools to help you and also help other web masters (like me), so some links for more details and answers are below:
Opt out across all Google Analytics toolbar
Google’s privacy policy on what information they take cookies wise
the people administrating this and more reading
a handy piece of code written to create the pop up box for consent
So don’t forget – deadline:
26th May 2012
Thanks
Sarah
