An over-indulgence in Easter treats might not be the only cookie fatigue that individuals will suffer this year according to the Information Commissioners Office (ICO).
What is cookie fatigue?
It is not unusual for internet users to be flooded with various cookie pop-ups that restrict access when trying to visit online websites. As such, there are increasing concerns that individuals are clicking “I agree” to these pop-ups without really understanding what they are agreeing to.
So what is a cookie? Cookies contain a small amount of information which a provider of an online service can implant onto the terminal equipment of an individual’s device when they visit a website. When this data can be linked to a name, address or email it will amount to personal data.
What are the ICO’s comments and suggestions on tackling cookie fatigue?
Cookie fatigue can lead to a loss of control over users personal data and the ICO has suggested that individuals should be able to control their own privacy settings on website browsers, software applications and personal device settings, instead of through repeated pop-ups every time a website is visited. Not only is this suggestion already technologically possible, it is also compliant with the relevant data protection laws and can save organisations both time and costs, as well as improve overall user experience.
