Important: Changes to the Norwegian Electronic Communications Act
As of January 1, the new Electronic Communications Act (ekomloven) came into force. That means stricter rules for cookies and user consent. If you haven't got it with you, now is the time.
The goal of the new changes is, among other things, to strengthen the privacy of users.
This means that the new policy sets stricter requirements for obtaining valid consent from users and ensuring transparency in how cookies and personal data are handled.
Consent must be clear, voluntary and informed - so users actually understand what they are saying yes to.
Who is covered by the Electronic Communications Act?
The law applies to all organizations/enterprises that:
- uses cookies beyond what is strictly necessary for basic functionality
- operates in Norway or targets Norwegian users
- uses cookies for marketing, analytics or tracking
What does this mean for digital marketing?
This means that it is no longer allowed to make use of presumed or implied consent.
In other words, pre-ticked boxes, default settings and vagueness of consent are no longer law.
Users must now explicitly consent to non-essential cookies. This also applies to cookies for tracking, marketing and analytics purposes.
In other words, companies should update consent banners, review and possibly clean up how they use cookies, and revise their privacy statements.
The new law could affect digital marketing in that it could restrict data collected.
Here you will find more information about the new eco law and a step-by-step guide for you as a marketer:
Electronic Communications Act Compliance Checklist: Guidance for Marketers in 2025
If you are responsible for marketing, web editor or app in your company, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the new rules and make the necessary steps.
Do you have questions about how you can ensure compliance with requirements or other related to your digital presence? Get in touch for a chat.
