The Transparency and Consent Framework (TCF) is a set of guidelines and technical specifications that aim to standardize the way websites and apps obtain user consent for the processing of personal data. It was developed by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) Europe and is widely adopted by the digital advertising industry.
Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
- Common Language: The TCF defines a common language that websites and apps can use to communicate with consent management platforms (CMPs) and other relevant parties. This helps ensure consistency and interoperability across different platforms and technologies.
- Standardized Consent Process: The TCF provides a standardized framework for obtaining user consent, including the types of data that can be collected, the purposes for which the data will be used, and the options available to users.
- User Control: The TCF empowers users to have control over their personal data by providing them with clear information about how their data is being used and allowing them to make informed choices about consent.
- Transparency: The TCF promotes transparency by requiring websites and apps to disclose information about their data processing activities and to provide users with clear and understandable consent prompts.
- Flexibility: The TCF is designed to be flexible and adaptable to different legal and regulatory requirements. It can be used in conjunction with various privacy laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
By providing a standardized framework for consent management, the TCF helps to improve user privacy, streamline the consent process for publishers, and foster trust between businesses and consumers.
