Cookies under the magnifying glass: Are you really personal data?

Cookies under the magnifying glass: Are you really personal data?

in Frankfurt, a new digital building application started its introductory phase today, March 6, 2025. The project is part of the efforts to promote digitization in the construction system and to accelerate the approval procedures. The city of Frankfurt works with various partners to enable this transition to a more efficient system. This digital solution aims to simplify the processes and to significantly shorten the processing times for building applications. The step is a reaction to the increasing requirements for the modernization of administrative processes.

Digitization could also reduce possible hurdles in the construction industry caused by traditional, paper -based procedures. More and more cities, including Frankfurt, recognize the need to optimize processes and make it more environmentally friendly. The introduction of the digital building application is a crucial step in the right direction. As wnoz.de leads to higher efficiency in the administration and is also for builders of Advantage.

background to digitization in construction

The importance of digitization in construction is also emphasized in studies. An expert study shows that many companies and institutions are on the front front of the digital transformation. This change is not only technological, but also culturally necessary in order to be able to survive in international competition. A central aspect is the simplification and acceleration of approval and planning processes. This is continuously improved by the digital infrastructure and adapted to the new requirements.

The challenges of digitization concern not only technical aspects, but also to deal with personal data, especially in the context of cookies. Cookies that are data storage in the user's end device, for example, can contain personal data and are therefore of great relevance. According to the dr-dsgvo.de it is considered secure that cookies should be viewed as personal data.

legal framework conditions

The discussion about cookies is closely linked to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Telecommunications Telemedia Data Protection Act (TTDSG). This law, which came into force on December 1st, 2021, regulates the handling of cookies and other tracking technologies. The legal assessment of cookies as personal data has already been determined in a judgment of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) of 2020, according to which they are to be classified as such. From May 2024, the TTDSG will be transferred to the TDDDG, which will bring further implications for data protection.

The relevance of cookies as personal data is reinforced by the close connection with the user's IP address. This ensures that cookies not only fulfill technical functions, but also address important data protection aspects. They have therefore become a further topic of discussion that continues to debate experts and lawyers. The dr-dsgvo.de In this context, the various facets and developments around cookies and their challenges to privacy have illuminated.