Data protection under control: simply block external content

by Olaf Brandt

With the new feature for blocking external content, embedded content from third-party providers such as YouTube videos or Google Maps can be managed in a legally compliant manner. It enables better control over these services by first blocking them before loading. This feature is part of the etracker consent manager, but can also be used independently of it. An etracker Pro or Enterprise account is required to use this feature.

Functionality and use

Blocking embedded content from external services before loading is particularly useful for compliance with data protection regulations and for controlling the data that is sent to third-party providers.

An overlay of the same size as the external content is placed over it, which blocks the content until the user explicitly agrees. The external content is only loaded after clicking on the Share button, which specifies the name of the respective service. For example, “Unblock YouTube” appears on the button when a YouTube video is blocked.

To activate the overlay, a data-cb- must be added before the URL of the embedded content. This signals that the external content is to be blocked and replaced by the overlay.

Thanks to its simple implementation and customization, the feature can be easily integrated into existing websites. Although the etracker consent manager does not need to be activated to use this feature, the integration offers additional benefits and a seamless user experience. The link to the etracker consent manager can be made via the category selection in the settings.

Customization options

The text and color of the overlay that blocks external content can be adapted to the design of your own website in the account. In addition, links to the privacy policy and cookie policy can be added to provide users with further information.

You can find all the information from this article summarized once again in this video: