EDPB Releases New Guidelines on ePrivacy Directive Tracking Techniques

In a significant move for digital privacy, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has unveiled new guidelines that clarify the tracking techniques covered under the ePrivacy Directive. This development on 15 November 2023 marks a key moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance online privacy and data protection.

Key Highlights:

📜 Adoption of New Guidelines: Focused on the technical scope of Article 5(3) of the ePrivacy Directive, addressing new and emerging tracking technologies. 🛡️ Aim for Greater Legal Clarity: These guidelines intend to provide a clear understanding for data controllers and individuals about the Directive’s application. 🌐 Focus on New Tracking Techniques: Addressing alternatives to traditional cookies, such as tracking links, pixels, local processing, and unique identifiers.

🗣 Insight from EDPB Chair Anu Talus: ‘Ensuring privacy in the digital age requires clear rules. Our new guidelines aim to address the challenges posed by new tracking technologies, ensuring that the consent obligations are not circumvented.’

The Guidelines delve into key notions like ‘information’, ‘terminal equipment’, and ‘electronic communications network’, and present practical use cases for common tracking techniques.

The EDPB has opened these guidelines for public consultation for the next six weeks. This is a crucial opportunity for stakeholders to voice their opinions and suggestions.