Consent to the processing of personal data on websites: why is it necessary and can you refuse it?

Today, almost every website, from a simple landing page to an online store, asks users to consent to the processing of their personal data. This is usually a checkbox when registering, subscribing to a newsletter, or placing an order. What does this mean?

What is personal data?

Personal data is any information that can directly or indirectly identify a person.

This includes:

• Full name, phone number, email, address;
• IP address, cookies, location data;
• Information about purchases, interests, and website behavior

Why consent is required

Federal Law of the Russian Federation No. 152-FZ “On Personal Data” obliges the operator (website owner or company) to obtain consent from the user if:

• data is collected and processed for marketing, analytics, or newsletters;
• information is transferred to third parties (for example, a delivery service or advertising platforms).

The idea is to ensure the user understands who is using their data and why.

Can I refuse?

Yes, the user has the right to refuse consent. However, here are some important points:

• if consent is necessary for the provision of a service (for example, placing an order with delivery), refusal makes the service impossible;
• if consent is related to additional services (mailing lists, analytics), refusal must not limit the basic functionality.

Also, by law, the user has the right to:

• revoke consent at any time;
• request the deletion or modification of data;
• request information from the operator about what data is being processed.

Basic Rules for Websites

1. Consent must be free, specific, and informed. It cannot be hidden in a long text without explanation.
2. The user must be able to see the purpose of processing: “for registration,” “for order delivery,” “for mailing lists.”
3. The website is obligated to ensure data security and not transfer it without justification.

Why does the user need this?

Transparency. The user understands where their data will end up.

Protection. In the event of a data breach, the company can be held accountable.

Control. The user controls what data they are willing to disclose.

Benefits for companies

• Working within the law: Reduced risk of fines (up to several million rubles per violation).
• Increased customer trust: A transparent data processing policy builds reputation.
• Ability to legally use data for analytics and marketing.

To summarize

Consent to the processing of personal data is more than just a bureaucratic formality. It is a tool that protects the interests of both parties: the user - from abuse and unauthorized use of information; the company - from claims by regulators and clients.
While it is possible to revoke consent, in some cases this will prevent you from using certain website features. The main rule is that consent must be transparent, voluntary, and revocable.

Does your website have a “Consent to the Processing of Personal Data” section?