You may or may not be aware of the European Union’s “Cookie Law” that is going into effect on Saturday, May 26, 2012 but the implications could certainly affect you at some point in the future, particularly if the US adopts the same type of legislation.

So, what’s it all about? The EU is setting precedent for the enforcement of website owners asking users to opt-in to the use of cookies prior to entering a site. This means that a user visiting a website is asked, by way of pop-up banner or other interruptive device, if they approve the site using cookies to track their activity and collect usage data.  While I understand what this means and am able to make an informed decision, I can only imagine my mother calling in a panic, not knowing what to do.

According to the Internet Advertising Bureau’s own research, 89% of British web users say they want to be able to control their own privacy online. Yet only 37% understand what a cookie is. Will this lead to confusion? Absolutely, but will it force the digital communications industry to better consider the privacy of the general populace? They better, or it’s going to be a tough road ahead.

Yes, online privacy is important and should be enforced, but creating a smarter web experience should also be considered. At least for the near term, this feels like a step backwards.

But change is inevitable and as the Internet user base becomes more educated, it will become less of an issue. After all, we’re still in the communications business and it’s now our job to educate. Would the general user allow a site to “store information on their computer?” Probably not. Would they accept the fact a site is “set to allow all cookies?” It’s much more likely if they understand what that means.

Two opposing views:

PRO – Wired UK – “EU Cookie Law: Stop Whining and Just Get On With It”

CON – NoCookieLaw.com – “The Stupid EU Cookie Law (and Why it Should Die)”