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Getting Started: Update Your Cookie Banner

Updated this week

Learn when and how to update your website's cookie banner to ensure compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA. This guide clarifies cookie banner requirements, explains how Sona's cookieless tracking affects your compliance needs, and helps you make informed decisions about user consent. With this background, alongside user experience considerations.

Note: For specific legal questions about privacy compliance, consult with a privacy lawyer familiar with your region's regulations.

When to Use This / Prerequisites

  • When to use:

    • You're implementing Sona tracking on your website

    • Your current cookie banner needs updating for compliance

    • You're unsure about cookie banner requirements for your region

  • Prerequisites:

    • Understanding of your website's current cookie usage

    • Knowledge of applicable privacy regulations in your region

    • Access to modify your website's cookie banner or consent management

Decision Framework

Do You Need a Cookie Banner?

The answer depends on your specific situation:

You likely need a cookie banner if:

  • You use cookies to process personal data or track website visitors

  • You use third-party analytics, advertising, or marketing tools beyond Sona

  • You collect user data through forms, chat widgets, or other interactive elements

You may be exempt if:

  • You only use "strictly necessary" cookies for basic website functionality

  • Your primary tracking solution is cookieless (like Sona)

  • You don't process personal data through cookies

Regional Considerations

European Union (GDPR):

  • Separate cookie policy typically required

  • Explicit consent needed for non-essential cookies

  • Clear opt-out mechanisms must be provided

United States (CCPA):

  • Cookie information can be included in privacy policy

  • Different consent mechanisms may apply

  • State-specific requirements may vary

Implementation Considerations (If Banner Required)

  • Create clear, transparent messaging about data collection

  • Highlight your use of cookieless tracking technology

  • Ensure user-friendly design with equal prominence for accept/reject options

  • Test functionality across all devices and browsers

Key Concepts / Best Practices

  • Transparency First: Clear communication about data collection builds user trust and improves site interactions

  • Regional Compliance: Cookie banner requirements vary significantly by location—understand your specific obligations

  • Strictly Necessary Cookies: These support basic website functionality and typically don't require consent

  • Cookieless Advantage: Sona's cookieless tracking may reduce your consent requirements, but legal review is essential

  • User Experience: Balance compliance needs with site usability—overly complex banners can harm conversion rates

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