Guide to using the IAB Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF) for Shopify

If you’re running ads on your Shopify store, especially personalized ones, you’ve probably heard of the Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF). But when exactly do you need to use it? And how do you set it up if you do?

The TCF is essential for stores operating in the EU/EEA and UK that show personalized ads through third-party networks like Google AdSense or Google Ad Manager. It helps you stay compliant with GDPR and ePrivacy laws by giving your visitors control over how their data is used.

In this guide, we’ll explain when you should activate the TCF in Complianz for Shopify, and how to easily set it up:

Table of Contents

What is the IAB Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF)?

The IAB Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF) is a standardized framework developed by IAB Europe. It helps websites and apps communicate with users about their consent preferences regarding online advertising and data processing.

This framework is designed to help businesses comply with GDPR and ePrivacy regulations while running personalized ads.

When Do You Need the TCF?

You should enable the TCF in Complianz if:

  • You use online advertising on your Shopify store, especially personalized or targeted ads.
  • You run ads through third-party ad networks that require TCF compliance.
  • You want to provide your visitors with clear control over their consent choices related to online advertising.

If you do not run ads or do not use personalized advertising, you may choose to keep this feature deactivated.

How to Activate the TCF in Complianz for Shopify

  1. Open the Complianz app in your Shopify admin panel.
  2. Navigate to the Settings page.
  3. Find the section titled IAB Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF).
  4. Select Activated to enable the framework.
  5. Choose your preferred language for the consent prompts.
  6. Save your settings.
Additional Plugin Settings

Email Notifications: You can choose to receive occasional updates and communications related to the plugin.

FAQs

Q: What happens when I activate the TCF?
A: Activating the TCF allows Complianz to manage and communicate user consent in compliance with the IAB framework, helping your store meet GDPR and ePrivacy requirements related to advertising.

Q: Can I use the TCF if I don’t show ads on my store?
A: It’s recommended to activate the TCF only if you use online advertising on your store.

Q: What languages are supported?
A: You can select from multiple languages for the consent prompts. Non-supported languages will default to English.

Q: Can I customize the banner text and font size when TCF is enabled in Shopify?
A: When the Transparency and Consent Framework (TCF) is enabled, customization of the banner text will be disabled. This is to ensure compliance with the strict guidelines of the TCF framework.

If you need to further customize the text, we recommend consulting legal guidance to ensure compliance with TCF regulations. For more detailed information on TCF banner customization, you can refer to this guide.

Complianz has received its Google CMP Certification to conform to requirements for publishers using Google advertising products.