About Cookie Legislation in Europe
Since June 2012, the use of cookies by websites is subject to certain conditions.
A cookie is a small text file that is placed on the hard drive by the visitor’s internet browser. These text files are used to store temporary data for various purposes, for example to ensure that the user does not need to log in again every visit.
However, cookies are also used to track user behavior.
To prevent misuse, “cookie legislation” was introduced in the Netherlands, which determines which cookies may be used and for what purposes.
The Dutch law is based on a European directive but is unfortunately stricter than in many other European countries.
The legislation distinguishes between essential and non-essential cookies.
Essential Cookies
Essential cookies are necessary for the functioning of a website.
Examples include remembering a logged-in user or storing products in a shopping cart.
For essential cookies, there is an obligation to provide information, but explicit prior consent is not required.
This means that you must inform the user that you use Cookies and for what purpose.
Non-essential Cookies
These are cookies that are not necessary for the functioning of the website.
In practice, these are often cookies placed by Google Analytics, AdWords, and many social media sharing buttons.
These track the user. This is anonymous (no personal data is stored), but they are not necessary for the site to function.
For this type of cookie, you are legally required to obtain prior consent from the visitor.
Cookie Legislation and DotNetNuke
The cookies generated by DotNetNuke by default can be classified as Essential Cookies, and therefore only require providing information.
However, if you use Google Analytics, Google AdWords, or other services that place cookies or otherwise track users, you are required to ask users for permission in advance.
40FINGERS CookieLaw Module / Skin Object
To comply with the law, we have developed a DotNetNuke extension.
With this extension, you can provide information about essential cookies as well as request permission for placing non-essential cookies.
The CookieLaw extension is multilingual and can be customized to your needs in both content and design.
The extension can be added as a module or integrated into the website’s skin.
Options
A. Information Only.
A pop-up provides more information about the use of Cookies on the site, with a link to a page offering further explanation.
This option is suitable for essential Cookies.
B. Request Permission (Opt-in).
Certain Cookies are not placed unless explicit permission is given.
Suitable for all cookies as long as you clearly explain what types of cookies are involved.
C. Ability to Refuse Non-essential Cookies (Opt-out).
Cookies are placed by default, with a notice stating that continued use of the site implies acceptance of cookies.
This is not legally valid for non-essential cookies but is still used by many websites.
D. Require Permission
Access to the site is only granted after permission is given for placing Cookies. Not very user-friendly and it will certainly cost visitors, but it is used by some websites.