Cookie Notice: What It Is and Why Your Website Needs One

In an online world where privacy and data protection are more important than ever, businesses must be upfront about how they collect and use people’s data. One of the most common tools for gathering data online is cookies — and that’s where a cookie notice comes in.

But what exactly is a cookie notice, and why is it so important? Let’s break it down.

A cookie notice is a message that appears on a website to inform visitors that cookies are being used. It explains what cookies are, why they’re being used, and how users can manage or disable them.

You’ve probably seen these pop-up messages when visiting websites, asking you to accept or manage cookie settings. Some websites also keep a permanent cookie notice in the footer or privacy section. This notice helps ensure that users know how their data is collected and used.

Cookies are small text files that websites place on your device to collect information about your browsing activity. They help websites remember things like your preferences, login details, and activity — making your browsing experience smoother and more personalised.

Here’s a quick look at the types of cookies websites use:

• Essential Cookies: These keep the website functioning properly, like enabling secure logins or remembering items in your cart.
• Analytics Cookies: These track how users interact with the website, helping businesses improve performance and user experience.
• Advertising Cookies: These show personalised ads based on your browsing history and interests.
• Social Media Cookies: These allow you to share content directly from a website to your social media profiles.

By using a cookie notice, businesses show transparency about their data collection practices and give users control over their data.

1. Legal Compliance
   In South Africa, the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) requires businesses to inform users about data collection and get their consent for non-essential cookies. Global laws like the EU’s GDPR follow similar rules. A cookie notice helps your business stay compliant and avoid legal issues.
2. Building Trust and Transparency
   A clear cookie notice shows your users that you value their privacy and are open about how you handle their data. This builds trust and credibility — and trust is vital when you want users to keep coming back.
3. Giving Users Control
   Cookie notices often give users the option to accept, reject, or customise cookie settings. This empowers users to decide how much of their data they’re comfortable sharing, enhancing their experience and protecting their rights.
4. Enhancing User Experience
   Cookies improve website functionality, like remembering login details or user preferences. By explaining this in your cookie notice, users understand how cookies make their browsing experience more convenient and tailored.

A well-written cookie notice should cover the following:

• A Simple Explanation of Cookies: Briefly describe what cookies are and why they’re used.
• Why You Use Cookies: Explain how cookies help improve your website (e.g., performance, personalisation, analytics).
• Types of Cookies Used: List different types, like essential, functional, and marketing cookies.
• How Users Can Manage Cookies: Tell users how to accept, reject, or adjust their cookie preferences.
• Link to Your Privacy Policy: Provide easy access to your full privacy policy for more details on data collection and protection.

Adding a cookie notice is straightforward — here’s how:

• Use a Template: You can create your own cookie notice or save time by using a professionally drafted template designed for South African laws.
• Make It Visible: Display your cookie notice as a pop-up when users first visit your site, or place it in your website’s footer so it’s always accessible.
• Include a Privacy Policy Link: Ensure users can easily find more information on how their data is collected and managed.
• Give Users Options: Allow users to accept all cookies, reject non-essential ones, or manage their preferences.

A cookie notice isn’t just a legal requirement — it’s a sign of respect for your users’ privacy. It keeps your business compliant with data protection laws and builds trust by being transparent about how you collect and use information.

If you want your website to provide a safe, user-friendly experience while protecting your business legally, a clear and well-structured cookie notice is essential.

Ready to get started? Download our FREE Cookie Notice Template tailored for South African businesses today!