End of the probationary period: ACM enforces cookie regulations

Recently, the ACM has been actively monitoring whether websites comply with cookie regulations. These rules are not new, but the oversight is. And so are the fines: up to 450,000 euros per violation. Still, many websites continue to run cookies without valid consent.

The core is simple: cookies that track visitors – such as for remarketing or personalisation – may only be placed once someone has given explicit consent. Functional cookies can always be used. An exception has been made for analytical cookies, as long as they process little or no personal data.

What is no longer allowed: pre-setting cookies before consent, forcing visitors to click 'yes', or providing no options at all. And for government websites, a cookie wall is now prohibited.

However, we still often see this going wrong in practice. Banners that do exist but technically do not perform as required. Or solutions that fail after a CMS update. Editorial teams that have no control over it. And marketing teams that continue to collect data for which no consent has been given. This is now going wrong – both technically and legally.

CookieHub or HubSpot: simply well arranged

At Webwonders, we standardly resolve this with CookieHub or, for HubSpot sites, with the built-in banner. This means cookies only become active after consent. Visitors see a clear breakdown per type of cookie, in the language of their browser, whether on mobile or desktop. The management is simple and integrates seamlessly with the privacy statement.

No custom scripts. No dependence on developers. No surprises with updates.

For those currently facing this issue

Often, the question comes in through marketing or legal. Because campaigns are running via Meta or Google. Because a data processing agreement is needed. Or because there are questions about how something is actually arranged.

In all these cases: it’s better to have a solution that continues to work than to have to fix something later.

Also want a cookie notification that is correct and continues to work? We would be happy to show you what that looks like.

Want to know if your cookie banner is technically doing what it should do, then schedule a consultation.