Important Information About WP Statistics and PII
By default, WP Statistics does not record any Personally Identifiable Information (PII). However, you can change the default settings to record some user data, such as IP addresses and WordPress UserIDs. In version 14.8, we integrated the WP Consent API to make WP Statistics compatible with various consent plugins.
To check your current PII data settings, visit the Privacy Audit page in your WordPress dashboard.
What is Anonymous Functional Tracking?
With Anonymous Functional Tracking, WP Statistics tracks all users anonymously by default. This means no PII will be recorded unless the user gives explicit consent. Here’s how it works:
– Track Anonymously by Default: All users are tracked anonymously from the moment they visit your site, whether they give consent or not.
– PII Only with Consent: PII data is recorded only when the user explicitly agrees to it.
– Classified as Functional Data: Anonymous tracking data is essential for site functionality and compliant with privacy laws.
When this option is enabled, all users will be tracked anonymously by default, without recording any PII, regardless of consent. This anonymous tracking data is classified as “Functional” to align with privacy regulations. PII data will only be collected when explicit consent is provided by the website visitor.
Note: This feature is currently in beta and enables user tracking while adhering to privacy laws. Users are advised to review and ensure compliance with applicable legal requirements in their jurisdiction.
Why We Added Anonymous Functional Tracking
Many users noticed a drop in their statistics when visitors didn’t consent to data tracking. Anonymous Functional Tracking ensures you always have access to valuable data, even without consent, so you can continue gathering valuable insights while respecting privacy regulations.
How to Enable Anonymous Functional Tracking
1. Ensure the Consent API Integration option is enabled in your WP Statistics settings.
2. Once this is activated, you’ll see the option to turn on Anonymous Functional Tracking.
3. Enable this option, and you’re all set.
Benefits of Anonymous Functional Tracking
– Privacy Compliance: Track users anonymously to stay compliant with privacy laws.
– Complete Analytics: Gather essential data without missing insights due to lack of consent.
– Build Trust: Respect user privacy by only collecting PII with explicit consent.
FAQ
Q: What happens if a user doesn’t give consent?
A: If a user doesn’t give consent, their data will be tracked anonymously without recording any PII.
Q: Will this affect the accuracy of my analytics?
A: No, Anonymous Functional Tracking ensures you still get valuable insights while respecting user privacy.
Q: How do I enable this feature?
A: First, enable the Consent API Integration option in your WP Statistics settings. Then, you can turn on Anonymous Functional Tracking.
Q: Is this feature compliant with privacy laws?
A: Yes, Anonymous Functional Tracking is designed to comply with privacy laws by tracking users anonymously unless explicit consent is given.
Q: Can I still gather PII data if users give consent?
A: Yes, PII data will only be recorded when users explicitly consent to it.
We hope you find this new feature helpful. Upgrade to WP Statistics 14.9 today to start using Anonymous Functional Tracking and enjoy more comprehensive analytics while respecting user privacy. Thank you for being a valued member of the WP Statistics community!
