Law 25 and the website: what it changes for you (and for your sleep)

Since the entry into force of the Law 25, website owners in Quebec live with a new reality: it is no longer enough to have an “I accept” button floating in the corner. No, now transparency is required, consents must be clear, and the protection of personal data has become as essential as your Wi-Fi password.

But what does this actually mean for your website? Should we call a lawyer, a web guru or a psychic specializing in General Data Protection Regulations? Stay with us, we'll explain everything to you.

Law 25 in an understandable version (without legal jargon)

The Law 25, also known as the Act modernizing legislative provisions regarding the protection of personal information, aims to better regulate the use of personal data in Quebec. Adopted in September 2021, it was applied gradually until 2024. Its goal? Give individuals back control over their digital information.

Basically: if your website collects, uses or stores personal information (name, email, IP, preferences for dry or soft biscuits, commonly known as cookies), you are affected.

Your obligations: not just a cookie pop-up

Did you think a simple cookie banner would do the trick? Damage. Law 25 imposes several responsibilities on businesses, even the smallest ones. Here's what this means for your site:

  •  Obtain free, informed and specific consent (no, a pre-checked box is no longer enough).
  •  Clearly inform users of what you are doing with their data.
  •  Allow these users to withdraw their consent or access their information.
  •  Appoint a person responsible for the protection of personal information.

And be careful: everything must be documented. Because in the event of a problem, it is not ignorance that will save you, but your ability to prove your good faith.

How to Make Your Website Compliant with Law 25 (Without Losing Your Mind)

Good news: you don't need to redo everything. But some adjustments are essential.

First step: an audit of your site. What data is collected? By whom? Where are they stored? Then, you must put in place a clear confidentiality policy, display the consent choices in an understandable manner and… respect the user’s preferences. Yes, even if he refuses everything. This is digital democracy.

And this is where a local web developer becomes your digital savior.

Above all, display a clear message once the form is sent: “Thank you, we will contact you soon”, that’s the minimum. Add a human touch, a tone that suits you, in short… proof that there are humans behind the screen.

Why your local programmer is better than a magic plugin

Some plugins promise automatic compliance. Spoiler: it’s not that simple. Every site is different, as is every business. A local developer — like Arkhame — knows not only the technical particularities, but also the legal realities of Quebec.

He or she will be able to adapt the functionalities of your site, create personalized modules for consent management, and above all, advise you. Because between a Mailchimp form, a Google Map and a Facebook pixel, it’s easy to get lost… even with a GDPR compass.

What if you don't do anything?

Nothing serious… except fines. Up to $25 million or 4% of your global revenue. Suffice to say that this is not just a warning. Even if you're not Amazon, you're not immune. Regulators will start watching more closely — and your site might just be next on their radar.

So yes, inaction is a strategy. But it's a bit like driving without brakes in winter. Technically possible. Not recommended.

Arkhame, your digital co-pilot in the jungle of Law 25

At Arkhame, we don't just set you up with a banner of cookies. We support you in bringing your site into compliance, from a complete audit to personalized solutions. And we speak the same language as you — that of clarity, efficiency… and Quebec.

Discover our tailor-made web design services and contact us for support that respects the law, but above all your peace of mind.

In summary (but without bullet points, promise)

The Law 25 is a game-changer for all website owners in Quebec. Being compliant is not only a legal obligation, it is also a mark of respect for your visitors. And to achieve this without stress, nothing beats the expertise of a well-connected local programmer.