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Tracking communications: Contactlab introduces consent management

· 3 min read

Contactlab has updated the platform by introducing new features for managing consent to communication tracking. Customers can now collect and apply the preferences expressed by users, keeping them separate from the choice to receive communications.

New guidelines from the Italian Data Protection Authority​

On 17 April 2026, the Italian Data Protection Authority adopted the Guidelines on the use of tracking pixels in email communications, published in the Official Journal on 29 April 2026.
Among other aspects, the Guidelines cover information provided to users, obtaining consent where required, and the possibility of withdrawing consent, including specifically consent to tracking, while continuing to receive communications. The deadline for compliance is 29 October 2026.
Customers are encouraged to consult with their DPO and legal advisors to assess the necessary changes to processing activities and privacy notices, including those included in subscription forms.

To help customers adapt their processes, Contactlab provides new tracking preference management at user database level.

The functionality allows customers to:

  • collect and record the user's preference;

  • apply it to the tracking of opens and clicks;

  • keep it separate from unsubscribing from communications;

  • allow users to change their preference at any time;

  • access dedicated reporting.

A specific link for managing tracking, separate from the unsubscribe link, can be included in communications. This allows users to disable tracking while continuing to receive messages.

Integration with Send and CDP​

The new functionality is available in the main platform modules, Send and CDP.
Once enabled for the relevant database, standard subscription forms automatically include the dedicated field. When a delivery is sent, the platform applies the preference stored in the database, enabling or disabling tracking for each individual user.
The platform also provide dedicated reporting, allowing changes to tracking preferences to be viewed.

A tool integrated into existing processes​

The new management makes it possible to integrate tracking preferences into existing workflows without confusing them with consent to receive communications.
Contactlab provides the technical tools to collect, update and apply this preference. Customers remain responsible for the assessments and obligations within their remit, based on the purposes pursued, the consent expressed by users, and the guidance received from their DPO and legal advisors.
This first version represents the starting point for the evolution of the functionality. We will continue to improve it to further simplify customer processes and give end users increasingly clear control over their preferences.

For complex or custom configurations, including those involving CDP, Data Exchange, or other integrations, contact your Contactlab sales representative to assess the activation requirements and identify the most appropriate approach.

For more information, see the dedicated documentation.