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.
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.
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.
To read more about our cross-domain functionalities, check out the CookieHub Linker feature documentation here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Provide a consent management tool that lets users modify or withdraw consent after their initial choice.
Keep a record of when and how users gave consent in case of audits by Norwegian authorities.
A CMP helps automate compliance by providing fully customizable and legally compliant cookie banners. Ensures all collected consent data is properly stored and managed.
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.
CookieHub automatically scans your website to detect cookies, ensuring all cookies are easily managed.
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