Data protection on the Internet: Pixel under pressure - what counts now!

On January 10, 2025, Radio Bremen On the use of tracking pixels by the media platform. These small, 1 × 1 pixels of large graphic elements serve the anonymized statistical analysis of the surfing behavior of the users. Technically speaking, no conclusions about individual persons are possible, which guarantees the data protection of users.

The users of the website have the option of contradicting data acquisition and transmission by AT Internet/Piano Analytics. In addition, you can determine whether external content such as texts, images and videos should be displayed without renewed consent. If this function is activated, a connection with the provider is established when accessing the content. If the users choose to deactivate this function, their consent will be obtained again on the relevant page.

tracking pixels and data protection

In a further analysis on of the Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information it was explained that counting pixels are also used for statistical evaluations of websites, apps and emails. They are not technically necessary for the operation of the digital service, which is why the exceptional provision according to § 25 Paragraph 2 TDDDDG does not apply.

The data protection rights in connection with tracking pixels are specified by pointing out that the consent of the user must be obtained in accordance with Section 25 (1) TDDDDG. The provider of the digital service is responsible for data processing according to the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). A legally compliant use of tracking pixels is only possible if no personal data is determined.