New detailed guidance for marketers released by the Information Commissioner [Smart Insights]
May 2012 the new Cookie Law comes into force after a years grace and limited guidance from the begining. Not only will this affect UK websites but also those operating within, and under the regulations of the UK. Expect to see a wide implimentation of pop ups and footer bars next year, as people try to figure out how best to deal with this issue.
The date to be aware of is 26th May 2012 however the information commissioner has said in a recent blog post that:
“There will not be a wave of knee-jerk formal enforcement action taken against people who are not yet compliant but trying to get there”.
So there is not a threat of legal action if you are following the advice to achieve compliance. Interpreting the guidance, this suggests that by this date you should have:
- Audited your current use of cookies.
- Updated privacy messages on your site to reference use of cookies.
- Implemented or be working on implementing a method of offering opt-in to cookies.
Of course 1 and 2 are relatively straightforward, it is 3 that is challenging! Here you are very dependent on integration with third-party systems – cookies are essential for offering login.
THe full article, a great write up is available from Dave Chaffey, is available here: http://www.smartinsights.com/marketplace-analysis/digital-marketing-laws/latest-uk-guidance-for-eu-cookie-law/
