Introduction

If you run a website, you've almost certainly heard the term "cookies." But you might be wondering what a cookie policy is and if it's something your business really needs.

The short answer is: yes, if your website uses cookies and has visitors from the European Union, you are legally required by the GDPR to have a cookie policy.

This guide will explain what a cookie policy is, why it's a crucial legal document for modern websites, and what essential information you must include to be compliant.

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files that websites place on a visitor's device. They are used for a variety of essential functions, such as:

• Remembering Login Info: Keeping a user logged in as they navigate a site.

  
  

• Storing Shopping Cart Items: Remembering what a user has added to their cart.

  
  

• Analytics: Helping you understand how users interact with your site (e.g., Google Analytics).

  
  

• Advertising: Tracking user behavior across different sites to show them relevant ads (e.g., Meta Pixel).

Privacy Policy vs. Cookie Policy: What's the Difference?

While your main Privacy Policy should mention that you use cookies, a dedicated Cookie Policy is considered a best practice under GDPR. It allows you to provide the detailed, specific information that the law requires without cluttering up your main policy. Your Privacy Policy is the "what and why" of all data collection; your Cookie Policy is a deep dive into one specific method of data collection.