Legal news

The new cookie regime

Jonathan Winston

16 Jul 2012 2 min read

This blog is more than 13 years old

From 26 May all businesses with a website are required to obtain consent from users or subscribers in order to use cookies. This is to comply with the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations.

A cookie is a string of data (usually letters and numbers) which, by being stored on a particular device accessing a website, functions as a unique identifier for it.

The Regulations set out the requirements for notice and consent for cookies and other similar technologies. However consent is not a straightforward concept: the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) is not prepared to endorse any specific solution; instead, it advises organisations to adapt their approach depending on the type of cookie being used and the relationship with the users. Browser settings could offer a way of indicating consent to the use of cookies. However, the general view is that most current browser settings are not sophisticated enough for websites to infer that consent has been given to allow a cookie to be set.

In order to comply with the new regime there are some practical steps which businesses can take including: conducting a "cookie audit"; assessing the privacy intrusiveness of the cookies used; and deciding what level of information to provide to users so that they can understand clearly the potential consequences of agreeing to allow the cookies to operate on their devices. Businesses should also review their website terms and conditions and privacy policies.

The ICO may exercise a range of powers at its disposal in relation to breaches of the Regulations, including Enforcement Notices, Information Notices and fines of up to £500,000.

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Found Emily to be very Professional, whilst keeping things Personal. I was clear on what I wanted and she took time to ensure that it truly was my what I wanted and not running away with my thoughts. She gave me space to think and BE SURE. On day of signing I felt so comfortable with all my decisions and have not worried. The peace I have is real. Thank you Emily. For both your Professionalism and Personal care.

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Ian

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Anonymous

We were put in touch with Winston Solicitors and Emily was appointed to our case in relation to the LPAs. She was very thorough and professional, and explained everything in a manner that was easy to understand.I have no hesitation in recommending Winston Solicitors.

Lennie

It was a pleasure to sell our property through Winston’s Solicitors, Joe Bright was thoroughly professional throughout the whole process. I will definitely use Joe and Winston’s again.

Marcus

I would highly recommend Leasa. She was excellent throughout and had the patience to answer my questions and settle my worries as a first time buyer. I ended up pulling out of my first property but then buying a second instead and Leasa was very good at getting things sorted in a timely manner. She was very efficient and the online portal they used to keep me updated was excellent. I found they would always reply within 24-48 hours and I was also able to speak to Leasa directly when I had some concerns and wanted some advice. 10/10 service. Thank you so much to Leasa and the rest of the team too for helping me with my purchase and making it as least stressful as possible.

Tess

Very happy with the service provided during the house sale, price was competetive. I'm happy to recommnend Winston Solicitors.

Christopher

Samantha did a great job .Things moved promptly and smoothly and she kept me updated throughout the process.

Christian