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EU Plans Cookie Rule Overhaul Sparks Privacy Concerns

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The European Commission aims to simplify cookie consent regulations by eliminating the 2009 e-Privacy Directive's strict requirements.
Industry representatives have proposed integrating cookie rules into the GDPR for a more flexible approach.
Privacy advocates warn that relaxing these rules could lead to increased surveillance and targeted advertising.
Tensions are rising as the European Commission prepares the Digital Fairness Act to protect consumers from manipulative online practices.

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Story summary

The European Commission aims to simplify cookie consent regulations by eliminating the 2009 e-Privacy Directive's strict requirements.
Industry representatives have proposed integrating cookie rules into the GDPR for a more flexible approach.
Privacy advocates warn that relaxing these rules could lead to increased surveillance and targeted advertising.
Tensions are rising as the European Commission prepares the Digital Fairness Act to protect consumers from manipulative online practices.