If you’re using AdSense, you better implement a privacy policy…

If you use Google AdSense like I do, you probably sign in, see any warnings or updates and just click “I Accept” without much thought and go on (at least thats what I tend to do)… Well, just FYI, their last update at the end of February had a fairly significant change - if you use AdSense - you better have a privacy policy.

According to their newly revised program policies all advertisers need to have a privacy policy in place stating cookies are being used to collect data in the ad serving process. Now, you don’t need to be exact in what the policy states, but you do need to make your visitors aware that information is being collected. Specifically, your visitor’s browsing data.

Here’s an excerpt for the program updates for you:

We’ve also added some specific privacy policy requirements that make it necessary for publishers to post and abide by a transparent privacy policy for their users. According to this policy, publishers must notify their users of the use of cookies and/or web beacons to collect data in the ad serving process. This change relates to advertisers’ use of innovative products and features like Gadget Ads, Google’s new test ad server, and other offerings in the future.

I take this to mean that we just need to notify our visitors that cookies are being used, and what they’re being used for. I’ve implemented a BASIC privacy policy for TysBlog.com and would welcome you to read it. Now, I’m no lawyer, and let me reiterate that; I’M NO LAWYER (i.e. now you can’t sue me for my advice), but I think something similar should cover your bases. And to really cover my bases, I would also recommend you consult an attorney if you have any questions (alright, there’s no way you can sue me now).

Just thought I’d pass on some useful info and hopefully prevent anyone from getting their AdSense account pulled. If you would like to learn more you can read about the recent changes to their terms and conditions on the Google site HERE.

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