How to Set up the Consent Mode V2 in Google Tag Manager

Setting up Consent Mode v2 in Google Tag Manager involves configuring your tags to respect the user's consent preferences regarding tracking and cookies.

Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up Consent Mode v2 in Google Tag Manager:

  1. Update to the Latest Version of Google Tag Manager
    Ensure that you are using the latest version of Google Tag Manager, as Consent Mode v2 may not be available in older versions.

  2. Access Google Tag Manager Dashboard
    Log in to your Google Tag Manager account and select the container for the website where you want to set up the tag.

  3. Enable Consent Mode in Google Tag Manager
    Consent Mode v2 should be enabled by default in Google Tag Manager. However, you can verify this by navigating to your container settings and checking the "Consent" section. Make sure that the "Use consent mode for advertising cookies" option is enabled.

  4. Update Tag Configurations to Respect Consent Preferences
    • For tags that require consent, such as Google Analytics, Google Ads Conversion Tracking, Facebook Pixel, etc., you need to configure them to respect the user's consent preferences.
    • Within the configuration settings of each tag, you'll typically find an option related to consent or privacy. Enable this option to ensure that the tag respects the user's consent preferences regarding tracking and cookies.
    • For example, in Google Analytics tags, you may find an option like "Respect user's ad personalization settings" or "Enable data collection for advertising features only when consent is given." Make sure this option is enabled.

  5. Configure Triggers to Fire Tags Conditionally
    • Set up triggers to fire tags conditionally based on the user's consent preferences.
    • For example, you can create a trigger that fires tags only when the user has provided consent for advertising cookies.
    • Use the built-in variables related to consent status, such as `{{Consent}}` or `{{Google Analytics - Consent}}`, to conditionally fire tags based on consent.

  6. Test and Preview
    • Before publishing your changes, use the Preview mode in Google Tag Manager to test your tag configurations.
    • Verify that tags are firing correctly based on the user's consent preferences.
    • Test various scenarios, such as granting or revoking consent, to ensure that tags behave as expected.

  7. Publish Changes
    Once you've verified that everything works correctly in the Preview mode, publish your changes in Google Tag Manager to make them live on your website.

  8. Monitor and Adjust
    • Regularly monitor your tag configurations and user consent preferences to ensure compliance with privacy regulations and user preferences.
    • Make adjustments to your tag configurations as needed, especially if there are changes in privacy regulations or updates to Consent Mode v2.

By following these steps, you can set up Consent Mode v2 in Google Tag Manager to respect the user's consent preferences regarding tracking and cookies.