Overview
A Cookies Policy is a document or section of a website's privacy policy that informs users about the website's use of cookies.
Full Details
Cookies Policies - Explained
Communicate how cookies are used on your website clearly and transparently with a compliant Cookies Policy.
A Cookies Policy explains what cookies your website uses, why they are used, and how visitors can manage or opt out of them. It ensures transparency, supports UK GDPR compliance and helps build trust with users.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Cookies Policies - including what they cover, who needs one, the legal requirements and how to create a clear and compliant version for your website.
CONTENTS
Cookies are small text files placed on a user’s device when they visit a website. They help websites function properly, remember user preferences and collect analytical data to improve performance and experience.
A Cookies Policy is a legal notice that explains what cookies your website uses, what data they collect, why they’re used and how users can manage or withdraw consent. It ensures transparency and compliance with data protection laws such as the UK GDPR and Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).
Compliance: Many jurisdictions around the world, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), require websites to inform users about their cookie practices. Having a clear Cookies Policy helps businesses comply with these regulations and avoid potential legal penalties.
Enhanced User Experience: By using cookies responsibly and transparently, businesses can provide a more personalised and efficient user experience. For instance, cookies can remember login details, shopping cart contents or user preferences.
Data Analytics: Cookies can provide valuable insights into user behavior, helping businesses understand their audience better and optimize their services or products accordingly.
Trust Building: Just as with individual users, being transparent about data practices can help businesses build trust with their customers. A clear Cookies Policy can be a sign of a responsible and trustworthy business.
Marketing Optimisation: Cookies can be used to track the effectiveness of online advertising campaigns, helping businesses refine their marketing strategies and get better returns on investment.
Under UK GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR), websites must clearly inform users about the cookies they use, explain their purpose and obtain consent before setting any that are non-essential.
Users must also be given a simple way to manage or withdraw their consent at any time. These steps ensure transparency, protect user privacy and help organisations remain compliant with UK data protection law.
A well-written Cookies Policy should be clear, transparent and easy for users to understand.
It typically includes the following key details:
- Explanation of cookies and their purpose.
- List of cookies used (essential, analytics, marketing, etc.).
- Duration cookies remain active.
- How users can control cookies in their browser.
- Contact details for privacy queries.
Creating a compliant Cookies Policy involves a few simple but important steps to ensure your website remains transparent and within the law:
1. Audit your website’s cookies.
2. Categorise them (essential, analytics, marketing).
3. Draft a policy explaining usage.
4. Add a consent banner linked to the policy.
The cost of creating a Cookies Policy depends on whether you write it yourself, use a template, or seek professional support.
Most organisations choose one of the following options:
DIY – free if you adapt a template.
Solicitor Drafted – £200–£600.
Online Services – £30–£100.
Cookies Policy
The example below provides a simple overview of how this type of policy is usually structured and the information it contains. Actual content may vary depending on your website and requirements.
This Cookies Policy explains how [Website/Company Name] uses cookies and similar technologies on [website URL].
1. What Cookies We Use
We use essential, analytical, and preference cookies to operate our website and improve user experience.
2. Why We Use Cookies
Cookies help us understand how visitors use our site, remember user preferences, and deliver relevant content.
3. Managing Cookies
Users can adjust their browser settings or use our on-site cookie controls to accept, manage, or disable cookies.
4. More Information
For further details or to withdraw consent, contact us at [email address].
Robot Lawyer provides a clear, compliance-ready Cookies Policy template that aligns with UK GDPR and PECR. It outlines the cookies your site uses and how visitors can manage them.
Create a legally compliant Cookies Policy — with Robot Lawyer
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Is a Cookies Policy legally required?
Yes, if your website uses cookies beyond those strictly necessary.
What’s the difference between a Privacy Policy and a Cookies Policy?
A Privacy Policy covers all personal data processing; a Cookies Policy focuses specifically on cookies.
Do I need user consent for all cookies?
Consent is only required for non-essential cookies (e.g. analytics, advertising).
Can I use a generic cookies policy?
It must be adapted to reflect your actual cookie use to be compliant.
Need a Cookies Policy? Robot Lawyer helps you create a clear, website-ready policy in minutes.
How it works:
1. Select Create Document ➝ below to begin.
2. Answer a few questions about your website and cookie usage.
3. Receive a compliant, website-ready Cookies Policy instantly.
4. Save and publish it on your site.
Cookies Policy
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Solution
Cookies Policy
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