Cookie Settings

Settings for cookies and other technologies

1. Basics: What is a cookie notice?

Q: What exactly is a cookie banner? A: A cookie banner is a pop-up or overlay on a website that informs the user about the use of cookies and other tracking technologies. Its aim is to obtain the user's consent for data processing.

Q: Why do I need a cookie notice? A: Due to the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and the TTDSG (Telecommunications and Telemedia Data Protection Act), website operators are obliged to inform users about the storage of data and to obtain active consent (opt-in) for non-essential cookies.

2. Legal requirements

Q: Is a simple notice ("We use cookies") sufficient? A: No. Since the rulings of the ECJ (Planet49) and the German Federal Court of Justice (BGH), a mere notification is no longer sufficient. Users must actively consent via "opt-in" (e.g., an "accept" button)., before Cookies that are not technically necessary will be loaded.

Q: What are „essential“ or „necessary“ cookies? A: These are cookies that are strictly necessary for the website to function technically (e.g., a shopping cart cookie in an online store or security cookies). According to the law, explicit consent is not required for these, provided no further data (such as tracking) is collected.

Q: Which cookies are „non-essential“? A: Everything that goes beyond the pure function. Examples:

• Marketing and advertising cookies (e.g., Google Ads, Facebook Pixel).
• Analysis tools (e.g. Google Analytics).
• Social media plugins (e.g., embedded YouTube or Instagram videos).

Q: Do I have to offer a "Decline" button? A: Yes. Current case law and regulatory authorities require that rejecting cookies must be just as easy as accepting them. An "Accept all" button without an equivalent "Reject all" button is legally risky.

3. Technical Implementation

Q: Is it permissible for Google Analytics to load immediately upon page load? A: No. Google Analytics typically uses cookies for statistical purposes. These may only be loaded if the user has actively consented (e.g., by clicking "Agree").

Q: What is a Consent Management Platform (CMP)? A: A CMP (e.g., Usercentrics, Cookiebot, Borlabs Cookie) is a tool that technically controls the cookie banner. It automatically blocks scripts until the user has given their consent and logs this consent in compliance with legal requirements.

Q: What must be included in the privacy policy? A: The privacy policy must list in detail which cookies are used, for what purpose they serve, how long they are stored and on what legal basis the processing takes place.

4. Common Mistakes

Q: Is a "pre-ticked" box allowed? A: No. Consent must be given through an "active, voluntary, and informed action." Pre-ticked boxes are not permitted.

Q: Do I need to scan my cookies regularly? A: Yes, it is recommended to regularly check the website for new cookies. Often, plugins load new scripts in the background that the operator is unaware of, but which are relevant to data protection.

FAQ: Disable cookies

1. What happens if I disable all cookies?

If you block all cookies in your browser, many modern websites will no longer function correctly. Examples include:

• Shopping carts: Online shops cannot remember what you have placed inside.
• Logins: You have to log in again on every subpage of a website.
• Personalization: Settings such as language, dark mode, or location are not saved.
• Error messages: Some pages don't load completely at all.

2. Can I disable cookies for specific websites only?

Yes, most modern browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) offer the option to define exceptions. You can specify that cookies are generally blocked, but explicitly allowed for trusted sites (e.g., your online banking or email provider).

3. Is there a difference between "first-party" and "third-party" cookies?

• First-party cookies: These cookies are created by the website you are currently visiting. They are usually necessary for the website to function.
• Third-party cookies: They often originate from advertising networks or analytics tools. These are the ones that track your browsing behavior across different websites. Many browsers now block third-party cookies by default.

4. How do I disable cookies in my browser?

The procedure is similar depending on the browser, but the menu items vary:

• Google Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other website data.https://www.google.com/support/chrome/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=95647)
• Mozilla Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Website Data.https://support.mozilla.com/en-US/kb/Cookies)
• Microsoft Edge: Settings > Cookies and website permissions.https://support.microsoft.com/help/17442/windows-internet-explorer-delete-manage-cookies)
• Safari (Mac): Settings > Privacy > Manage cookies and website data.https://support.apple.com/kb/PH5042)
• Opera: https://www.opera.com/help/tutorials/security/privacy/

5. Is it enough to disable cookies to browse anonymously?

No. Cookies are just one of many methods used to identify users on the internet. Websites also use techniques such as... „"Browser fingerprinting"“ (Screen resolution, installed fonts, hardware configuration are recorded) to recognize you even without cookies. To browse truly anonymously, using a VPN or specialized browsers (like the Tor Browser) is more effective.

6. What is the difference between deleting and disabling cookies?

• Delete: Removes cookies already stored on your computer. New cookies will be set when you revisit the site.
• Deactivate: Prevents the browser from saving new cookies in the future.

7. Is there a "golden mean"?

Instead of disabling all cookies, experts usually recommend:

1. Block third-party cookies (This restricts tracking, but usually leaves functions intact).
2. „"Do Not Track" requests Enable it in your browser settings (however, this is not respected by all websites).
3. Regular deletion: Configure your browser to automatically delete all cookies when it is closed.

8. Do I also need to disable cookies on my smartphone?

Yes, the browser settings on your phone (Safari for iOS, Chrome for Android) are largely identical to those on your PC. If you want more privacy, you can adjust the relevant settings in the browser apps under "Privacy".

A notice: If you experience problems browsing certain websites, always check first whether they might be blocked by your cookie settings before contacting the support of the respective site.