The Cookie Law Explained

What is the Cookie Law?

The “Cookie Law” refers to a European Union privacy regulation that requires websites to be transparent about how they use cookies and similar technologies. In practice, this means websites must:

  • Inform visitors about what data is being stored or tracked.

  • Explain why those cookies are used.

  • Ask for consent before placing non-essential cookies on a visitor’s device.

The law was introduced in 2011 as part of the EU ePrivacy Directive and has since been implemented across all EU countries (including through the UK’s Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations).

Why Does It Matter?

Cookies are small files saved in your browser. They can:

  • Remember login details or language settings (helpful for smooth browsing).

  • Track activity across pages or even across different websites (used for analytics, advertising, and profiling).

While many cookies improve user experience, others collect personal data in ways users may not expect. The Cookie Law ensures you have a choice and control over how your information is used.

Who Needs to Comply?

Any website that:

  • Operates within the EU, or

  • Targets EU visitors

…must comply with the Cookie Law.

This usually involves:

  • Displaying a clear cookie notice.

  • Allowing visitors to accept or reject non-essential cookies.

  • Keeping a record of user consent.

Failure to comply can lead to regulatory action and, just as importantly, can harm visitor trust.

Types of Cookies

  • Essential cookies – Needed for the website to function (e.g., keeping you logged in, remembering cookie preferences).

  • Performance & analytics cookies – Help site owners understand how visitors use the site.

  • Functional cookies – Remember preferences and enhance the browsing experience.

  • Advertising & tracking cookies – Build profiles to deliver personalized ads across different sites.

Cookies on pikairos.eu

On our site, we use:

Functional cookies

Cookie Purpose Duration
PHPSESSID Keeps track of your session (deleted when you close the browser). Session
cookie_notice_accepted Remembers if you have accepted cookies. 12 months

Third-party cookies

  • When you watch embedded YouTube videos, cookies from YouTube may be set.

  • If you prefer, you can choose internal videos only, which avoids triggering YouTube cookies.

In Summary

The Cookie Law is about giving you control over your online privacy. On pikairos.eu, we only use cookies that are strictly necessary for the site to function properly. No tracking or advertising cookies are used.