Consent Management Platform (CMP)

A software tool that helps websites and apps collect, store, and manage user consent for cookies and data processing activities. CMPs present cookie banners or consent interfaces to users, record consent choices, enforce those choices by controlling which cookies and trackers load, provide mechanisms for users to change preferences, and maintain audit trails of consent decisions. A good CMP handles the technical complexity of consent compliance—blocking non-consented cookies until permission is granted, managing consent across domains and devices, keeping consent records, and providing granular controls. CMPs became essential with GDPR and ePrivacy requirements for cookie consent. Features to look for include customizable consent interfaces, integration with popular advertising and analytics platforms, support for global privacy signals, detailed reporting, and regular updates for regulatory changes. The CMP market has grown significantly as websites struggle with consent compliance complexity.