UK to urge G7 to adopt new approach to dealing with annoying emerging cookies

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Data protection authorities across the G7 should be urged to deal with pop-up consent windows for annoying cookies, which critics say are not appropriate for the purpose.

Suggestions for improving the ways in which internet users consent to cookies will be discussed in a series of virtual meetings that will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The government cited the handling of cookie requests as an example reforms to the UK data protection regime which it plans to introduce in the future.

What is a web cookie?

A cookie is a small amount of information stored by your browser and shared on the websites you visit without change.

The technology is used by online retailers to remember what items you want to buy when you visit check-out, as well as to store your username and passwords.

Cookies are designed to be unique to your browser, but this means that some websites may use special tracking cookies to track you on the web.

These cookies are often used by third-party advertisers, who, by creating data on the websites you visit and the markets you are interested in, can target ads to you.

Cookie consent forms are designed to allow Internet users to allow or deny the storage of these tracking cookies by their browsers, but the emerging hassle design forces many people to click “Agree” without substantial consent. .

The meetings will be chaired by Elizabeth Denham, the current United Kingdom Information Commissioner, who is expected to step down this year.

But her position has been criticized, with the Open Rights Group among organizations claiming Ms Dennam’s appeal to the G7 runs counter to the way she has fulfilled her role as regulator.

“The simple fact is that most cookie banners are illegal, and collecting data behind them, according to her own report, is also illegal,” said Jim Killock.

“If the ICO wants to arrange the cookie banners, then it will have to follow its own conclusions and enforce the law.

“We’ve been waiting more than two years for the ICO to deal with this and now they are asking the G7 to do their job for them. This is simply outrageous.

“We fully support their call for automated signals, but in the meantime they will have to enforce the law, which is their job,” he added.

Each of the G7 authorities will make a presentation during the meetings on an issue that it believes requires international cooperation.

According to the Office of the Information Commissioner (ICO), many people automatically select “Agree” when they appear with pop-up cookies, leaving them without substantial control over their personal data.

Ms Denham is proposing a new system “where web browsers, software applications and device settings allow people to set permanent privacy preferences of their choice, rather than having to do so through pop-ups every time they visit a website “.

“This would ensure that people’s privacy preferences are respected and the use of personal data is minimized, while improving the user browsing experience and removing friction for businesses,” her office explained.

“While this approach is already technologically feasible and in line with data protection legislation, the ICO believes that the G7 principles could have a significant impact on encouraging technology companies and standardization bodies to further develop and develop solutions focused on privacy in this matter. “

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