Overview of Our Cookie Usage
Here is a quick summary of Cookies and their use on our website:
- We use cookies to make our website more user-friendly.
- Cookies help prevent our online forms from being misused for spam.
- They enable us to monitor site usage, identify trends, and improve our services.
- We do not use cookies to identify individuals and never will.
- No personal information is stored in our cookies.
Cookies are essential for the smooth operation of our website. They do not threaten your privacy or online security, and we recommend allowing them. Disabling cookies will affect the website’s interactive features, such as form submissions, user registration, and login.
Detailed Information
When Did the Law Change and Who Enforces It?
The EU’s “E-Privacy Directive” was initially introduced in 2003 (Directive 2002/58/EC) to safeguard privacy in electronic communications. It was amended in 2009 (Directive 2009/136/EC) to require consent for cookies and similar technologies. This Directive became UK law on 26th May 2011 through “The Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) (Amendment) Regulations 2011,” with enforcement starting on 26th May 2012 by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) (www.ico.gov.uk).
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small pieces of data sent by a website to a user’s browser, which then returns the data to the website. They serve various purposes, such as authentication, session management, user preferences, and more. Cookies cannot execute programs, carry viruses, or install malware. However, they can track browsing activities, leading to privacy concerns that influenced legal regulations.
Most websites use cookies for practical reasons, such as site functionality and usage monitoring (e.g., tracking which pages are visited and for how long). The law now mandates that users must have the option to opt out of cookie storage.
What Happens If You Disable Cookies (Opt-Out)?
If you opt-out of cookies, we record this preference so that you won’t be asked again. Most of the website will function as intended, but certain features reliant on cookies, like online forms or login requirements, will be disabled. We use a cookie to remember your preferences, which means:
- If you delete all your cookies, you’ll need to set your preferences again.
- If you use a different device, browser, or user profile, you’ll need to set your preferences again.
What Happens If You Ignore the Question?
If you don’t respond to the cookie consent question, the website will continue setting cookies as needed. This “implied opt-in” approach is supported by the Information Commissioner’s Office.
Disclaimer
This website provides general information intended to promote our firm and raise awareness of issues that may require legal advice. While we strive to keep the content current and accurate, it is not a substitute for legal advice. Always seek specific legal guidance from a qualified lawyer before taking or refraining from any action. Hammons Solicitors disclaims liability for any loss resulting from reliance on the information on this website