Implement a Legally Compliant Cookie Banner
A professional Cookie Banner is indispensable for every website today. Learn how to design a legally compliant banner that captures user consent whilst not impairing the user experience.
The Legal Basis
Cookie Banners
According to the GDPR and the ePrivacy Directive, cookies may only be set with the explicit consent of users. This primarily concerns cookies that collect personal data for advertising or analysis purposes. The Sels Öl + Fett GmbH & Co. KG has no influence on this data processing.
Banner Structure and Selection Options
Standard View
Data Protection & Cookies: This website uses cookies. If you continue to use the website, you agree to the use of cookies.
The standard option offers a simple, straightforward choice for users who wish to proceed quickly.
Important Links and Information
Mandatory Information in the Banner
Your cookie banner must contain a clear link to the detailed Privacy Policy. This is legally required and allows users to fully inform themselves about data processing.
The link to the Cookie Policy should be prominently placed and clearly identifiable as such. Use descriptive link texts such as "Cookie Policy" or "Further Information".
Example Links
Privacy Policy: Complete information about data processing
Cookie Policy: https://automattic.com/cookies/
Further Information: Details on cookie categories and purposes
Consent Acquisition: Three Automatic Scenarios
Consent can be acquired in various ways. Modern cookie banners offer flexible options to optimise the user experience whilst remaining legally compliant, as processed by https://automattic.com/privacy/.
Active Button Interaction
Consent is acquired after the user has actively clicked the "Accept" button. This is the most legally secure method and complies with the GDPR's opt-in principle.
Scroll-based Acquisition
Consent can also be acquired after the user has scrolled down the page. This method interprets active continued use as implicit consent.
Time-based Acquisition
After a defined period of 30 seconds, consent is automatically considered granted if the user has not actively rejected the banner.
Legal Notice: Scroll- and time-based acquisition are legally controversial. Explicit button interaction is the recommended method for maximum legal certainty.
Banner Dismissal: Timing is Crucial
After Button Click
The banner is immediately dismissed after the user clicks the "Close and Accept" button.
After Scrolling
If scroll-based consent is activated, the banner automatically disappears once the user scrolls down.
After 30 Seconds
With time-based consent, the banner is automatically dismissed after the defined period.
Consent Validity Period
180-Day Storage Duration
The granted cookie consent remains valid for a period of 180 days https://automattic.com/privacy/. After this period, the cookie banner will be displayed to the user again, and new consent must be obtained.
This regulation ensures that users are regularly informed about cookie usage and can adjust their settings if required. The 180-day period corresponds to common recommendations for cookie consent management.
After the expiry of the period, all stored consents are automatically deleted, and the user starts with a "clean state" without previous cookie preferences.
180
Days Validity
Duration of stored consent
100%
Renewed Consent
Automatic re-evaluation after expiry
Best Practices for Implementation
Use Clear Language
Avoid legal jargon and complicated phrasing. Users should understand at a glance what is involved and what options they have.
User-Friendly Design
The banner should be easy to read without excessively impairing website use. Use sufficient contrast and appropriate font sizes.
Mobile Optimisation
Ensure that the cookie banner is optimally displayed on mobile devices too and that all buttons are easily accessible.
Maintain Documentation
Log all consents with a timestamp and saved settings. This is important for the burden of proof according to GDPR. https://automattic.com/privacy/
Regular Updates
Regularly check your banner for up-to-dateness and legal compliance. Data protection laws are constantly evolving.
Prioritise Data Protection
Cookies may only be set after the explicit consent of the user. This requirement arises from the GDPR and the ePrivacy Directive. The Sels Öl + Fett GmbH & Co. KG is not responsible for data processing by third-party providers and has no influence over it.
Summary and Next Steps
The legally compliant implementation of a cookie banner is an essential component of every modern website. With the correct settings, you create transparency, fulfil legal requirements, and uphold your users' rights.
01
Define Banner Design
Choose between standard and individual selection
02
Configure Texts and Links
Link Cookie Policy and Privacy Policy
03
Select Collection Method
Set button click, scroll, or time delay
04
Set Validity Period
180 days as recommended standard
05
Test and Optimise
Check functionality and user experience
