Traffic Drop After Using CookieYes
Last updated on March 14, 2024
As websites adopt CookieYes to comply with privacy regulations, some may notice an initial drop in website traffic. Several technical factors contribute to this phenomenon by impacting the user experience and site analytics during the implementation and transition periods. This document discusses the potential technical causes behind the traffic decline when first integrating CookieYes. By understanding these dynamics, web administrators can take proactive steps to smooth out the rollout process and avoid risking key traffic metrics.
Impact of Opt-In and Opt-Out Behavior
The consent banners offer users the option to Opt-In or Opt-Out of cookies, thereby empowering individuals to control the data collected during their online interactions. Many visitors will ignore the banner and leave the site without making a selection. In those cases, no data is recorded about those users since no cookie consent was captured. This means a website’s analytics will fail to register visits and sessions for users who do not Opt-In. The recorded drop in traffic following the implementation of CookieYes primarily results from the fact that the system does not register data for users who ignore the cookie consent banner and subsequently leave the website without opting in or opting out. Prominent banner placement and concise messaging can encourage opt-ins of consent.
Impact of Google Consent Mode
CookieYes incorporates built-in support for Google products like Analytics and Ads through a feature known as Google Consent Mode. This feature allows Google tags to adjust their behaviour based on a user’s cookie consent. However, it’s important to note that limitations in tracking and data collection due to user consent can still result in decreased website analytics and attribution accuracy. Additionally, if Google tags are completely blocked until after obtaining cookie consent, they can further compound these data gaps. An advanced implementation that loads Google tags before consent aims to mitigate the impact through cookieless pings and modelling. However, reduced visibility from restricted tracking can lead to perceived traffic declines as consent requirements alter visitor data. This is further described in the article: Consent mode on websites and mobile apps.