Google Sites GDPR Compliance Guide
TL;DR:
- Create a clear privacy policy that explains how you collect and use personal data
- Add a cookie consent banner that appears before any cookies are set
- Use explicit opt-in checkboxes for newsletter sign-ups and contact forms
- Secure any personal data you collect with proper storage and access controls
- Know your data breach response procedures and user rights under GDPR
Getting your Google Site GDPR compliant doesn't have to be complicated. The key is being transparent about what data you collect and giving users control over their information.
Your Privacy Policy Essentials
Your privacy policy needs to be more than legal waffle. It should clearly explain what happens to visitor data on your site.
What to cover:
- Types of data you collect (email addresses, form submissions, analytics data)
- Why you collect it (newsletters, contact responses, site improvement)
- How long you keep it
- Who else might see it (email providers, analytics services)
- How users can request deletion or updates
Place your privacy policy link in the footer so visitors can find it easily. Google Sites makes this straightforward through the footer settings.
Update your policy whenever you change how you handle data. This includes adding new forms, switching email providers, or installing new analytics tools.
Cookie Consent Implementation
If your Google Site uses cookies beyond basic functionality, you need user consent before setting them.
Common cookies on Google Sites:
- Google Analytics tracking
- Embedded YouTube videos
- Contact form functionality
- Third-party widgets
A simple banner at the top or bottom of your site works well. It should explain what cookies you use and let visitors accept or decline non-essential ones.
Google Sites doesn't have built-in cookie consent tools, so you'll need to embed a third-party solution or create a custom banner using HTML blocks.
Handling Contact Forms and Sign-ups
Every data collection point needs proper consent handling.
For contact forms:
- Add a checkbox that users must tick to submit
- Link to your privacy policy in the checkbox text
- Don't pre-tick consent boxes
For newsletter sign-ups:
- Use clear language about what emails they'll receive
- Separate checkboxes for different types of communications
- Include unsubscribe information
The consent needs to be specific. "I agree to receive marketing emails" is better than "I agree to the terms and conditions."
Data Security Basics
Google handles most security aspects of hosting, but you're responsible for how you manage collected data.
Key security measures:
- Use strong passwords for your Google account
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Regularly review who has access to your site
- Don't store sensitive data unnecessarily
If you export data from forms or analytics, store it securely and delete it when you no longer need it.
Knowing Your GDPR Obligations
You need to respond to user requests about their data within 30 days. This includes:
- Providing copies of data you hold about them
- Correcting inaccurate information
- Deleting their data when requested
Keep records of what data you collect and why. This makes responding to requests much easier.
FAQs
How can I add a privacy policy to my Google Site?
Create a new page for your privacy policy, then add a link to it in your site footer. Go to your site settings, find the footer section, and add the link there.
Do I need cookie consent for Google Analytics?
Yes, Google Analytics uses cookies to track visitors, so you need consent before it runs. You can delay loading the tracking code until users accept cookies.
What happens if I don't comply with GDPR?
Fines can reach 4% of annual turnover or €20 million, whichever is higher. Even small sites can face significant penalties for serious breaches.
Jargon Buster
GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation): EU law that governs how personal data must be handled and gives individuals rights over their information.
Personal Data: Any information that can identify a person, including names, email addresses, IP addresses, and online identifiers.
Cookie Consent: Permission from website visitors to store cookies on their device, required for non-essential cookies under GDPR.
Data Controller: The person or organisation that determines how and why personal data is processed.
Wrap-up
GDPR compliance for Google Sites comes down to transparency and user control. Be clear about what data you collect, give users choices about cookies, and make it easy for them to contact you about their information.
Start with a solid privacy policy and cookie consent system. These cover most compliance requirements for typical Google Sites. Regular reviews help you stay compliant as your site grows and regulations evolve.
Ready to dive deeper into website compliance and digital marketing? Join Pixelhaze Academy for comprehensive training and ongoing support.