Glossary > Privacy > Consumer Privacy > Online Privacy Policies

Consent Management

Consent management involves obtaining clear and explicit permission from individuals before collecting, using, or sharing their personal data. This includes providing information in a transparent and easily understandable manner to ensure that individuals are aware of what data is being collected and for what purposes.

Example #1

An online retailer asking users to explicitly click a box agreeing to the terms of service and privacy policy before creating an account.

Example #2

A social media platform allowing users to adjust their privacy settings to control who can view their personal information.

Misuse

Misuse of consent management can occur when companies bury consent requests in lengthy, confusing terms and conditions that users are unlikely to read thoroughly. This lack of transparency can lead to individuals unknowingly agreeing to have their data shared with third parties or used for purposes they did not anticipate. It is crucial to protect against misuse to safeguard individuals' privacy and prevent unauthorized data usage.

Benefits

Consent management empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their data privacy by giving them control over how their personal information is utilized. By obtaining explicit consent, organizations build trust with users and demonstrate a commitment to respecting their privacy preferences.

Conclusion

Consent management plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals have a say in how their personal data is handled online. By promoting transparency and empowering users to control their information, consent management aligns with CAP's mission of fostering a fair and transparent marketplace that prioritizes consumer rights and privacy protection.