Privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA affect most websites, not just European companies. While compliance can feel overwhelming, the core requirements are straightforward. Here's what you actually need to implement.
Do These Regulations Apply to You?
GDPR applies if:
- You have users in the EU
- You process data of EU residents
- You market to EU residents
CCPA applies if:
- You do business in California
- You have California users
- You meet certain revenue/user thresholds
If you have a public website that anyone can visit, you likely need basic compliance measures. Better safe than sorry—the fines are substantial.
Cookie Consent and Tracking
This is the most visible requirement:
- Users must opt-in before tracking (not opt-out)
- Cookie banners must be clear, not manipulative
- Users must be able to reject tracking easily
- Essential cookies don't require consent
Don't auto-accept or use dark patterns. Consent must be freely given.
Implement proper cookie consent before loading Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel, or any tracking scripts.
Privacy Policy Requirements
Your privacy policy must clearly state:
- What data you collect
- Why you collect it
- How you use it
- Who you share it with
- How long you keep it
- Users' rights (access, deletion, portability)
Don't copy-paste a generic policy. It should accurately reflect your actual practices.
Link to your privacy policy from every page (usually in the footer) and before any data collection forms.
User Data Rights
Users have the right to:
- Access their data
- Request deletion
- Download their data
- Correct inaccurate data
- Withdraw consent
You need processes to handle these requests:
- Contact email clearly displayed
- Ability to verify identity
- Response within 30 days
- Actual data deletion (not just deactivation)
For small businesses, this is usually manageable manually. Larger operations need automated systems.
Data Security Requirements
You must protect user data appropriately:
- Use HTTPS everywhere (encrypt data in transit)
- Hash passwords properly (never store plaintext)
- Limit data access to necessary personnel
- Have backup and recovery procedures
- Notify users of data breaches
These are security best practices anyway. GDPR just makes them legally required.
If you're using reputable hosting and following modern development practices, you're likely already compliant.
Getting Compliant: Practical Steps
Start with these actions:
1. Implement proper cookie consent banner
2. Write or update your privacy policy
3. Audit what data you collect and why
4. Ensure HTTPS across your entire site
5. Set up processes for data requests
6. Document your data handling practices
This isn't legal advice—consult a lawyer for specific situations—but these steps cover the basics for most websites.
GDPR and CCPA compliance isn't as scary as it seems. Most requirements align with building user trust and following security best practices. Start with proper cookie consent and a clear privacy policy, ensure basic security measures are in place, and have processes for user data requests. That covers the fundamentals for most websites.