Cookies can improve the convenience of using websites and other online services, but there have long been concerns that these files intrude on the privacy of users by allowing website owners to track their page movements and browsing habits. This data is often used to make improvements to websites, such as making navigation easier.

Cookies have proven to be a contentious issue of web privacy for a number of years, and the EU's announcement of its Privacy and Communications Directive coming into effect on 26 May 2012 has many website owners concerned about the loss of traffic monitoring and other benefits offered by cookies. Meanwhile, regular web users are concerned that this may lead to more pop-ups and the need to re-type data into fields every time they visit websites, all of which would make browsing less convenient.

The EU cookie directive does not ban the use of cookies, but requires that all websites that use cookies to inform users when cookies are being used on certain pages, typically in the form of pop-up windows that ask for the user's consent to store these files on their computers. Although a number of privacy groups are in favour of this decision, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has warned that this could be difficult to achieve in reality, without causing disruption to the internet user experience.

There may be solutions to be found in web browsers themselves, which play a part in accessing, storing and using cookies. Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 and the most recent version of Mozilla's Firefox browser already aim to protect users from services that collect browser data, and Google Chrome is also integrating a Do Not Track feature into the company's Chrome browser. A browser solution will ensure greater coherence across websites, rather than giving individual site owners the freedom to alter their approach to cookies as they see fit.

The EU directive comes into effect in May, so UK companies have until then to comply and develop an effective solution. The ICO website itself offers a useful introduction and explanation to how cookies work, and lists some examples of strategies website owners could use to ensure their websites comply with the new laws.

If you're concerned about your web privacy or security, or you believe companies or individuals have accessed your personal information illegally, you should bring this issue to the attention of privacy regulators or consult with one of the various solicitors in London.

Fiona Roy writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.