IAB TCF – Transparency & Consent Framework – comprehensive guide for publishers and advertisers
Compliance with data protection regulations is essential for companies in the digital age. The IAB Transparency and Consent Framework (TCF) V2.2 plays a central role in this by clearly defining the guidelines for processing user data and promoting transparency in the advertising industry.
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What is the Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF)?
The Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF) was developed by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) Europe to provide publishers, advertisers and technology companies with a common platform on which they can ensure compliance with European data protection regulations. It is specifically designed to help companies fulfil the GDPR-compliant requirements as well as the requirements of the new Swiss Data Protection Act when processing users’ personal data.
TCF provides a standardised framework that offers clear guidelines for the collection, processing and sharing of user data. It helps companies to obtain user consent in a transparent and effective manner, which is essential for legally compliant advertising. The framework defines specific roles for all parties involved in the digital advertising process and specifies how consent data should be transferred between these parties.
One of the core features of TCF is the Global Vendor List (GVL), a list that includes all technology providers that follow the rules of the framework. This list makes it easier for publishers to identify those third-party providers that respect their consent preferences and act accordingly. The framework also allows for more flexible handling of consent by providing specific exceptions and rules that can be applied in certain advertising and processing scenarios.
The core features of the TCF include:
- A standardised language for communicating consent between websites and advertising technology providers.
- Specifications on how information about data processing should be presented to users.
- Technical specifications for the implementation of consent mechanisms that protect users’ rights.
By providing clear guidelines and standards for data collection and processing, the TCF plays a critical role in creating a more transparent and accountable digital advertising landscape.
Basics of the IAB TCF V2.2
The IAB TCF V2.2 is an evolution of previous frameworks specifically designed to fulfil the requirements of the GDPR and the new Swiss Data Protection Act while enabling an effective advertising experience. This framework ensures that all parties involved, from advertisers to publishers, speak a common language when it comes to obtaining and managing user consent.
What’s new with TCF V2.2?
TCF V2.2 brings several improvements over its predecessors, including:
- Improved transparency measures that provide users with clearer information about how their data is used.
- More granular control for users over their privacy settings.
- Stronger requirements for consent protocols to ensure they comply with legal standards.
Technical implementation of TCF V2.2
For the technical implementation of TCF V2.2, companies must integrate specific consent management platforms (CMPs) that are compatible with the framework. These platforms make it possible to collect and manage consent data efficiently, which is crucial for compliance.
The importance of IAB TCF V2.2 for companies and users
TCF V2.2 not only has an impact on the way companies process data, but also influences user trust in digital ecosystems.
Advantages of TCF V2.2 for companies
Companies benefit from the implementation of TCF V2.2 in several ways:
- Increased legal certainty in data processing.
- Improved user trust through transparent data handling.
- Optimisation of advertising efficiency through targeted declarations of consent.
Advantages of TCF V2.2 for users
Users benefit from increased control and transparency over their personal data:
- Clear and understandable information about data usage.
- Possibility to easily customise preferences and withdraw consent.
- Assurance that their data will be handled in accordance with legal requirements.
Ensuring IAB TCF V2.2 compliance with the Legally ok CMP solution
Legally ok is recognised as the leading Swiss all-in-one website CMP solution for comprehensive website data protection. As a certified partner of the IAB TCF Framework and official CMP partner of Google, Legally ok offers a fast and efficient solution to make websites compliant with the IAB TCF Framework.
With Legally ok, you can make your website legally compliant in just three steps:
Step 1: Register your website in the Legally ok Dashboard
Register for free and enter your website in the Legally ok Dashboard. Then activate the Legally ok Pro subscription via the ‘Upgrade’ button in the top right-hand corner to activate the IAB TCF V2.2 mode of the Legally ok CMP.
Step 2: Implement the Legally ok CMP on your website
Implement the Legally ok script on your website using the simple step-by-step guide or use our WordPress plugin. This process is designed to be completed quickly and without in-depth technical knowledge.
Legally ok can be quickly and easily integrated into all content management systems. Thanks to detailed instructions, simple integration is guaranteed. The dashboard, where users can manage their settings for the cookie banner, privacy policy and legal notice, is intuitive to use.
Step 3: Request activation of the IAB TCF mode from Legally ok
Contact our support team at support@legally-ok.com to have the IAB TCF Framework mode activated by Legally ok. We will then immediately take care of activating IAB TCF mode for your website.
Support and further development
Legally ok offers a support page with many helpful articles that can be accessed at Legally ok Support. For paying customers, there is also personal ticket support, which guarantees fast and effective help.
The solution is constantly updated to the latest TCF standards to ensure ongoing TCF compliance. This relieves website operators of the worry of having to constantly ensure compliance with current data protection standards.
The broad acceptance and positive feedback from over 5,000 customers as well as the successful use of TCF mode by large platforms and publishers confirm the reliability and efficiency of Legally ok. Customers particularly appreciate the security and simplicity of the solution, which allows them to focus on their core business without having to worry about the complexity of data protection compliance.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the IAB TCF and TCF V2.2
What is the IAB Transparency and Consent Framework (TCF)?
The IAB Transparency and Consent Framework (TCF) is an initiative of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) Europe to help publishers, ad tech companies and other digital players fulfil the requirements of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The framework ensures that user data is processed transparently and user privacy is respected by setting a standard for the collection and sharing of consent on the use of data and cookies.
What are the core objectives of TCF V2.2?
TCF V2.2, the latest version of the IAB TCF, aims to increase the transparency of user interactions by providing improved mechanisms for obtaining and documenting user consent. It also improves interoperability between the various technology platforms and players in the digital advertising ecosystem.
How does TCF V2.2 differ from TCF V2.0?
TCF V2.2 offers enhanced features compared to TCF V2.0, including more detailed control for users over their privacy settings and a more precise definition of the responsibilities of the various parties involved. Important planned changes also include adjustments to technical specifications to ensure compliance and user-friendliness.
What role do cookies play in the IAB TCF?
Cookies play a central role in the IAB TCF as they store information about users’ preferences and online behaviour. TCF regulates how consent to use these cookies is obtained, managed and shared to ensure that all players in the advertising ecosystem respect users’ privacy preferences.
How can I make sure my website is TCF V2.2 compliant?
To make your website TCF V2.2 compliant, you should use a certified Consent Management Platform (CMP) such as Legally ok, which is specifically designed to comply with the TCF guidelines. These platforms help to correctly implement the necessary technical and organisational measures to manage user consent in accordance with the TCF.
What advantages does Legally ok offer as a CMP solution in relation to IAB TCF V2.2?
Legally ok offers a number of benefits as a certified CMP solution, including easy integration with existing systems, a user-friendly interface for managing user consents and ensuring compliance with the latest IAB standards. By using Legally ok, organisations can ensure that their data collection practices comply with legal requirements while providing a positive user experience.
Is there any support or resources from IAB Europe for implementing TCF V2.2?
IAB Europe provides extensive resources and guidance on the implementation of TCF V2.2, including technical specifications, best practices and FAQ documents, which can be found on their official website. These resources are designed to help organisations adapt their systems and processes accordingly.
Are you ready to take control of your online data? With Legally ok’s IAB certified CMP solution, you can make your website compliant with the latest IAB TCF standard in just a few steps. Register now for free and make sure your website is legally compliant today.

