Cookie banner in 2026: Obligations and Consent Mode V2
The term "Cookie banner" causes headaches for many website owners. Legislation is becoming stricter, and since March 2024, Google introduced the mandatory Consent Mode V2. If you don't have it set up correctly, you lose valuable data and Google might block your remarketing.
What are the legal requirements?
GDPR directives are clear. Your banner must meet these criteria:
- No pre-checked boxes: Analytical and marketing cookies must be OFF by default.
- Equal buttons: The "Reject All" button must be just as visible as "Accept All".
- Blocking scripts before consent: Your site must not launch Google Analytics or Ads pixels BEFORE the user clicks "Accept".
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What is Google Consent Mode V2?
Consent Mode V2 ensures the visitor's choice is respected. If a user rejects cookies, Google tags won't write cookies but will send an anonymous "ping" (cookieless tracking). Consent Mode V2 introduced new parameters. If not set, Google Ads won't allow you to create remarketing audiences.
Implementation without expensive plugins
Many companies pay monthly fees for WordPress cookie modules. Our agency White Eagles implements fully legal, Consent Mode V2 compatible banners directly into the code via GTM – as a one-time setup with no monthly fees.
