Cookies and pixels are the two most common website tracking technologies, oftentreated as interchangeable. A cookie is a small text file stored in the visitor's browser,like Google Analytics' _ga. A pixel is a 1x1 invisible image or HTML snippet that firesa server request on page load and often plants a cookie via the Set-Cookie header —like the Meta Pixel. Under ePrivacy Article 5(3) and EDPB 2023/2024 guidelines, bothrequire prior consent — pixels aren't exempt just because they don't store data on thedevice. Most cookie banners disclose cookies but ignore pixels — a gap CNIL hasstarted fining for.‍

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