Opting In Versus Opting Out
March 5, 2024
National Consumer Protection Week is a great time to talk about the difference between opting in versus opting out, especially when it comes to personal data. A misunderstanding of the two terms could result in agreeing to something in which you would not choose to provide your consent.
To opt in, or to provide explicit consent, means to take a specific action to provide your consent. For example, if a website asks you to click a box to accept cookies, it is providing opt-in consent. It will not collect cookies unless you check the box to indicate permission.
On the other hand, to opt out, or provide implicit consent, means you must take a specific action to withdraw your consent. For example, if you begin receiving unwanted emails from a company after ordering something from their website, choosing to unsubscribe from their email list is an action that indicates you have opted out of receiving communication from them through email.
Some websites use a hybrid model for opting in and opting out, offering an opt in option for sensitive personal information and an opt out option for non-sensitive personal information. It is always important to read privacy details carefully before choosing to opt in or opt out of an agreement, as staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself online.