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EU Proposes Easing Cookie Consent Rules, Sparks Privacy Concerns

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The European Commission proposes to simplify cookie consent rules by eliminating the 2009 regulation requiring banners under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The move aims to ease regulatory burdens on digital companies as part of a deregulation agenda.
Some EU countries back dropping consent for essential cookies, and privacy advocates warn of increased surveillance.
Industry lobbyists seek a flexible approach under GDPR ahead of next year's Digital Fairness Act.

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Story summary

The European Commission proposes to simplify cookie consent rules by eliminating the 2009 regulation requiring banners under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The move aims to ease regulatory burdens on digital companies as part of a deregulation agenda.
Some EU countries back dropping consent for essential cookies, and privacy advocates warn of increased surveillance.
Industry lobbyists seek a flexible approach under GDPR ahead of next year's Digital Fairness Act.