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Norway is making significant changes to its digital privacy regulations with the introduction of the new Electronic Communications Act, which came into effect on January 1, 2025. One of the most important updates in this law affects how businesses handle cookie consent and online tracking.
In this article, we’ll explore what cross-domain cookies are, why they matter, and how CookieHub can make managing them easier. Cookies are small text files that websites store on a user’s device to enhance browsing experiences and gather information about user interactions. They play a pivotal role in web functionality, enabling features like remembering login details, preserving shopping cart contents, and delivering personalized content.
What Are Cross-Domain Cookies?
Cross-domain cookies allow user data, such as consent preferences, to be shared between different domains. For example, if a business operates multiple websites, cross-domain cookies can ensure that users who have provided consent on one domain don’t need to re-consent on another. This creates a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.
However, implementing cross-domain cookies comes with challenges, including ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and maintaining transparency with users. That’s where CookieHub’s feature comes in.
CookieHub's Cross-Domain Cookies Linker Feature: Simplifying Consent Sharing
The Cross-Domain Cookies feature in CookieHub provides a practical solution for websites using multiple domains. By passing user consent information through query string parameters, this feature ensures that user preferences are respected across all specified domains.
Key Benefits of Cross-Domain Cookies:
- Improved User Experience: Users don’t need to provide consent repeatedly across your domains.
- Flexibility in Implementation: Easily configure Cross-Domain Cookies for specific domains via CookieHub or Google Tag Manager.
1. Want to Learn More?
To read more about our cross-domain functionalities, check out the CookieHub Linker feature documentation.
2. Users Must Be Able to Reject Cookies Easily
Users must be provided with a clear and equally accessible option to reject cookies, not just an “Accept” button.
Many websites previously designed banners that nudged users toward acceptance. Under the new rules, this is illegal.
Now websites must include a prominent “Reject” button alongside the “Accept” button.
3. No More Pre-Ticked Boxes or Default Opt-In
Websites cannot use pre-ticked boxes or default settings that enable cookies.
Previously, some websites assumed consent by default, requiring users to opt out manually. This is now prohibited.
Cookie banners must only activate cookies after explicit user consent is given.
4. Clear and Transparent Information on Cookies
Websites must provide detailed explanations of what each type of cookie does, why it is used, and who has access to the collected data.
Many cookie policies were vague or incomplete. The new rules demand full transparency and companies must update their cookie policies and make them easily accessible.
5. Consent Must Be Easily Withdrawable
Users must be able to change their cookie preferences at any time after giving consent. Before, some websites made it difficult or impossible for users to withdraw consent once given. Websites must include an easily accessible consent management tool allowing users to adjust settings.
How to Stay Compliant: Actionable Steps
Implement a Fully Compliant Cookie Banner
Ensure users must take explicit action (e.g., clicking “Accept”) before cookies are placed.
Provide an equally visible “Reject” option.
Avoid pre-ticked consent boxes.
Use a Transparent Cookie Policy
Clearly explain why cookies are used, what data is collected, and who has access to it.
Make the cookie policy easily accessible from the banner.
Allow Users to Change Their Preferences Anytime
Provide a consent management tool that lets users modify or withdraw consent after their initial choice.
Log and Store Consent Records
Keep a record of when and how users gave consent in case of audits by Norwegian authorities.
Use a Consent Management Platform (CMP) like CookieHub
A CMP helps automate compliance by providing fully customizable and legally compliant cookie banners. Ensures all collected consent data is properly stored and managed.
Why This Matters for Businesses
Failure to comply with Norway’s new cookie regulations can result in:
Fines and legal consequences from Norwegian authorities.
Loss of user trust, as privacy-conscious users expect compliance.
Risk of ad revenue loss, as non-compliant websites may face restrictions from advertising networks.
Avoid penalties and build trust with your users and stay compliant.
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