Blocking Cookies vs. Deleting Cookies — What’s the Difference?

Many confuse blocking cookies with deleting them but GDPR treats them very differently.

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1. Blocking Prevents Data Collection

Blocking stops cookies from being set in the first place.

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2. Deleting Happens After Tracking

Deleting cookies still allows data collection to occur first.

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3. GDPR Requires Prevention, Not Cleanup

Consent must be obtained before tracking.

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4. Deleting Alone Is Not Compliance

Retroactive fixes don’t satisfy GDPR.

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5. Cookiepal Blocks Before Anything Loads

Cookiepal ensures:

• Cookies are blocked by default

• Consent comes first

• Nothing fires prematurely

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Final Takeaway

GDPR requires prevention, not cleanup. Cookiepal ensures cookies are blocked until users choose otherwise.

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Sources & References

• GDPR Article 7 – Consent timing
• CJEU Planet49 Case
• EDPB Consent Guidelines