How to Quickly Make Your Google Analytics CCPA Compliant

Google Analytics is the most widely used analytical tool, utilized by more than thirty million websites. There are higher chances that you have already used the system. As such, it is important to be CCPA-compliant.

Recently, California enacted a law to protect consumers’ privacy. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) came into effect on 1 January 2020. The privacy law warrants California consumers the right to know what personal information is collected from them by websites and how it is used. Consumers reserve the right to opt to sell or not sell their personal information (PI). In this case, the term “sale” defines renting, selling, disseminating, disclosing, transferring, or sharing orally, in writing, or electronically a consumer’s personal information to a third party or another business for monetary benefit or any other consideration.

It is prudent to comply with this law to avoid getting into trouble with government agencies. Here are simple steps on how you can become Google Analytics CCPA compliant.

1. Check Your Google Analytics Data Collection

Inspect your implementation of Google Analytics to ensure that you are not violating the CCPA terms and conditions. After identifying whether you are breaking the law, go on and check the kind of personal information you have been collecting on your website, such as User IDs. This process should not be a one-time task; it should be continuous to ensure you are always compliant.

2. Acknowledge the Data Processing Terms

Google has updated data processing tools to include CCPA. If you purchase analytics from a retailer, then the reseller is obliged to be CCPA compliant. Thus, you will not accept the data processing terms from Google directly. If you purchase your analytics from Google directly or use the free version, then you can go on and accept the processing tools under Account > Accounting settings.

3. Modify IP Anonymization and Data Retention Settings

Data retention refers to the total amount of time that data is kept on analytics tools. You can adjust the amount of time you retain customers’ data by going to Property>Tracking Info>Data retention and selecting one that fits you most. The amount of time you choose is dependent on the legal advice you receive. Note, you should state the amount of time you select in your Privacy Policy.

4. Update Your Privacy Policy

You need to categorically describe what personal information you collect under Google Analytics CCPA-compliant regulations. It is essential to address the information you send to Google, the address, and the User’s IP.

5. Ascertain Whether Consent Opt-Out Is Necessary

In November of 2019, Google released a feature by the name “Restricted Data processing.” This feature was geared towards helping organizations that use Google products to be CCPA compliant. According to Google, the restricted data processing mode has several options to help organizations comply with the new law.

Luckily, MonsterInsights has a simple solution. Sign up for MonsterInsights today and ensure that your website is compliant.

Jorge Leger

Jorge Leger is the founder and digital strategist behind Astound Media, a New York–based agency helping organizations grow through smart, scalable web design and marketing. With over a decade of experience in WordPress development, SEO, and marketing automation, Jorge partners with mission-driven teams to deliver high-performing websites and campaigns that drive real results. He brings a sharp eye for strategy and a deep understanding of what it takes to stand out online—especially for small businesses and nonprofit organizations.

When he’s not leading projects or optimizing digital funnels, you’ll find him exploring ways to make technology more accessible and impactful for growing teams.