Law 25: Is your website compliant with the protection of personal information legislation?
With the fast-paced evolution of digital technology and the growing importance of personal data protection, Law 25, adopted in Quebec, imposes strict requirements on companies for the management and protection of personal information. The aim of this law is to guarantee transparency, security and consent with regard to user information, including the management of cookies on websites. If you manage a website, it’s essential to understand the implications of Law 25 and make sure you’re compliant. Fortunately, cFocus is here to help you meet these new standards.
What is Law 25?
Law 25, adopted in 2021 and gradually implemented, modernizes Quebec’s Privacy Act. It imposes obligations on businesses and organizations that collect, use, or store personal information of Quebec residents. This law aligns with international data protection standards, such as the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) in Europe.
The main objective of Law 25 is to strengthen corporate transparency and accountability in data collection and management. This includes requirements on how cookies are used on websites and how user consent is obtained for the use of these technologies.
Sensitive data
Cookies
Law 25 main goal
The importance of Cookie compliance
Cookies are small files stored on users’ browsers that enable websites to track online activity, store preferences and improve the user experience. However, some cookies, notably third-party cookies, can also collect personal information, which raises privacy issues.
With Law 25, companies must not only inform users about the use of cookies, but also obtain their explicit consent before activating them. This means that cookie banners must be more transparent and offer a real opt-out option. In addition, users must be able to manage their cookie preferences at any time.
Key requirements of Law 25
- Informed consent: Users’ consent must be free, informed and given before their data is collected, whether via cookies or other means. A simple pre-ticked box or obscure message is no longer enough. There must be a clear explanation of the nature of the cookies used and how the information will be processed.
- Access to information: Users must be able to access the information collected about them and request correction or deletion of this data, if necessary. This includes cookie management, with options to disable certain types of cookies directly on the site.
- Enhanced security: Any company managing personal data must ensure that this information is protected against security breaches. This includes encrypting data collected via cookies and implementing robust security measures to protect databases.
- Increased accountability: Companies must now appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) who will be responsible for ensuring the company’s compliance with Law 25. In addition, they must document their practices and be ready to demonstrate compliance in the event of an audit.
How cFocus can help you comply with Law 25
- Website analysis: cFocus begins by analyzing your website to identify your data collection and management needs.
- Setting up a privacy policy page: cFocus helps you draft and set up a clear privacy policy page that complies with Law 25. This page explains in detail how your data is collected, stored and used, offering total transparency to users while meeting legal requirements.
- Setting up consent banners: cFocus helps you integrate cookie consent banners that comply with Law 25. These banners are clear, transparent, and offer users the option of refusing or accepting cookies according to their preferences.
- User preference management: In addition to setting up banners, cFocus lets you create a system where users can change their cookie preferences at any time. This ensures that you remain in continuous compliance with legal requirements.
Law 25 is an important turning point in the protection of personal information in Quebec, and it imposes compliance challenges for companies, particularly with regard to cookie management. However, with the right tools and a trusted partner like cFocus, you can easily meet these new requirements while continuing to deliver an optimal user experience. Don’t let compliance issues hold back your business growth: make sure your website is secure and compliant with Law 25 today.
Don’t hesitate to contact our team today for a consultation or to find out if you’re compliant with Law 25 requirements.