Cookie Audit
A systematic review and documentation of all cookies and tracking technologies used by a website.
A cookie audit is a comprehensive scan and analysis of every cookie, pixel, local storage entry, and tracking technology deployed on a website. The audit identifies each tracker’s name, domain, purpose, category, lifespan, and whether it is first-party or third-party. This process is essential for building an accurate cookie policy, configuring consent management correctly, and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.
Regular cookie audits are necessary because websites change frequently — new plugins, analytics tools, advertising scripts, and third-party integrations can introduce cookies without the website operator’s knowledge. Privacy regulations require organizations to maintain accurate records of their data processing activities, which includes tracking technologies. Best practice is to conduct a cookie audit at least quarterly, and always after major site updates, new integrations, or changes to third-party services.