The case

Cookie trap is defined as “the behaviour of users on websites who click on ‘accept all’ in the cookie banners without giving it much thought”. This leads to a large number of companies given permission to collect and analyse user data in order to place personalised advertising.

Source: SRF Blog (in German)

The commentary

In essence, this is programmatic advertising in which personalised ads are precisely custommade to meet individual behaviour and interests by collecting user data. This form of advertising has long been a central component of the digital advertising industry. Now, the immense extent of data collection is the longer the more criticised.

The main problems with cookie tracking are:

Uncontrolled data collection: The companies that obtain data via cookie banners are often difficult to track. It is unclear how many companies have access to this information and what they use the data for.

Lack of transparency: It is almost impossible to check the partner companies, and the collected data often end up on so-called shadow markets, where they are sold on to third parties, sometimes illegally.

Risk of misuse: Another major risk is that sensitive data are not only used for advertising, but also for fraudulent activities. One infamous example is the Epsilon case, in which a data trading company sold masses of personal information to criminals.

The discussion about cookie banners and data protection shows that many users often unconsciously give far-reaching consent without being aware of the risks involved.

This publication has been prepared solely for information purposes and is does not constitute a recommendation, a solicitation, or an offer. The information on which this publication is based has been obtained from sources that we believe to be reliable and in good faith, but we have not independently verified such information and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to its accuracy. All expressions of opinion are made as of the date of publication and may be subject to change without notice. k-flash and all related affiliates accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for any consequential loss of any kind arising out of the use of this publication or any part of its contents. The use of this publication should not be regarded as a substitute for the exercise by the recipient of his or her own judgment. This publication is not directed to any person in any jurisdictions that prohibit such publication.