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EU Proposes Simplifying Cookie Rules Amid Privacy Concerns

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The European Commission aims to simplify cookie consent rules by potentially eliminating the 2009 e-Privacy Directive.
The move would ease burdens on digital companies, drawing EU support including Denmark, which seeks exceptions for necessary cookies.
Privacy advocates warn that relaxing rules could undermine data protection, increasing surveillance and targeted advertising.
The Commission plans to present a comprehensive proposal in December, triggering lobbying from industry and privacy groups.

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Story summary

The European Commission aims to simplify cookie consent rules by potentially eliminating the 2009 e-Privacy Directive.
The move would ease burdens on digital companies, drawing EU support including Denmark, which seeks exceptions for necessary cookies.
Privacy advocates warn that relaxing rules could undermine data protection, increasing surveillance and targeted advertising.
The Commission plans to present a comprehensive proposal in December, triggering lobbying from industry and privacy groups.