Many websites use cookies to collect information about visitors. A cookie is a small text file a website saves on your computer or mobile device when you visit the site. For example, a browser cookie aims to store information about your actions and preferences (such as login, language, font size, and other display preferences) over an extended period, so you don’t have to keep re-entering them when you return to the site or switch between pages.
Some cookies are essential for the website to function correctly, and they can’t be turned off. Other cookies are helpful for the website’s owners because they can show how popular the site is and where visitors are coming from. Cookie consent is implemented through cookie banners.
Banners appear when you first visit a website that uses cookies. They ask for your permission to store or access information on your device.
Does the below look familiar?
“This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By continuing to browse the site, you agree to our use of cookies.”
Shopify Cookie Consent Banners
Shopify cookie consent banners are fully customizable, allowing you to control your banner’s look, feel, and messaging. You can also choose when and how often the banner appears.
To learn more about cookie consent banners, visit Shopify’s help center.
Why Do Websites Use Cookie Banners?
Imagine someone collecting information about every website you visit. That would be creepy, right?
The same goes for websites. They don’t want to collect information about you without your consent. Cookie banners allow visitors to opt-in or opt-out of cookies being used on their devices.
How Do I Implement a Cookie Banner?
If you’re using Shopify, there are a few ways to add a cookie banner to your store. Enzuzo has a free cookie banner generator specially made for Shopify stores.
You can also use a Shopify app like Cookie Consent by GeoTrust or CookieYes to add a banner to your store.
If you’re not using Shopify, you can use a service like Cookiebot to generate a cookie banner for your website.
Cookie Banners and GDPR
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European Union data protection regulation that went into force on May 25, 2018. It replaces the 1995 Data Protection Directive, dubbed the “DPD.”
The GDPR took effect on May 25, 2018. One of its key objectives is to give control back to citizens and residents over their data. The GDPR imposes strict requirements on how personal data must be collected, used, and protected.
Under GDPR, all websites that collect or process the personal data of EU citizens must get explicit consent from the visitors before using cookies. If your website targets EU citizens, you need to have a cookie banner that complies with GDPR.
Cookie Banners and CCPA
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is a law that was passed in 2018 in the state of California, USA. It came into effect on January 1, 2020, after a two-year adjustment period.
The CCPA gives Californian consumers the right to know what personal information is being collected about them, have that information deleted, and opt out of its sale.
The law applies to any for-profit business that collects or processes the personal data of California residents and meets one or more of the following thresholds:
-Has annual gross revenues over $25 million
-Derives 50% or more of its annual revenues from selling consumers’ personal information
-Possesses the personal information of 50,000 or more consumers
If your website meets one or more of these thresholds and you collect the personal data of California residents, you must have a cookie banner that complies with the CCPA.
Conclusion
Everyone wants control over their personal data. That’s why cookie banners are important. They give visitors the chance to opt-in or opt-out of cookies, and they help website owners comply with privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA. Along with all this, should you accept them, cookies with the user’s overall experience on the website.
When adding a cookie banner to your website, make sure to include a clear and concise message about what cookies are being used and why. You should also give visitors the option to opt-in or opt-out of cookies. Lastly, make sure your banner complies with all relevant laws and regulations.
