User consent - definition
User consent is a voluntary, specific, informed, and unambiguous indication of a data subject’s wishes by which they signify agreement to the processing of their personal data. It is a crucial element for compliance with regulations such as GDPR, where data processing must be based on a clear legal basis. Consent must be obtained prior to data processing and can be withdrawn at any time, granting the user control over their personal information.
Managing user consent is also important in the contexts of on-premise data processing, artificial intelligence applications, and privacy protection in the digital environment.
What tools are used to manage user consents?
Specialized platforms and Consent Management Platforms (CMPs) are used to collect, store, and manage user consents in accordance with legal requirements. These tools integrate consent mechanisms into user interfaces, provide easy options to withdraw consent, and report consent statuses. Popular solutions include OneTrust, TrustArc, Cookiebot, and Usercentrics.
What are the benefits of collecting user consents?
Collecting user consents enables organizations to process data lawfully, increases transparency of operations, and builds user trust. Proper consent management helps avoid hefty fines and legal sanctions. Additionally, effective consent management contributes to better service personalization and optimization of marketing and analytical activities.
What challenges are associated with managing user consents?
Challenges include ensuring that consent collection and management processes comply with rapidly evolving regulations and user expectations. Creating intuitive and clear interfaces for users, as well as integrating consent management systems with existing IT infrastructure, can be difficult. Moreover, growing demands for privacy and transparency require continuous monitoring and updates of consent policies.
Examples of collecting user consents
An example of collecting consents is displaying consent banners upon a user’s first visit to a website, where the user can accept or decline consent for processing various types of data. In mobile applications, this process is implemented through consent forms that must be accepted before accessing certain features. The consent records are then stored in CMP systems following legal requirements.