Put user privacy first with "System - Do Not Track," a powerful Joomla plugin that respects the Do Not Track (DNT) browser setting by dynamically managing access levels. This tool detects whether a visitor has enabled DNT and automatically adds or removes a Joomla Access Level, allowing you to control which components, modules, or plugins (like those setting tracking cookies) are accessible based on their privacy preferences.
Note:
The DNT header has been mostly abandoned. The plugin is simple enough that I chose to update it for Joomla 5 in order to use it as an implementation example for my consent management plugin System - EU e-Privacy Directive (eprivacy). This plugin (and 2 others) integrate directly with eprivacy to deliver a management interface for site owners attempting to comply with GDPR and the EU e-Privacy Directive.
The exact same functionality is delivered in the still relevant System - Global Privacy Control (GPC) plugin. It is not recommended that you use this plugin, choose GPC instead. This plugin is for the nerds who want to learn and experiment with consent management.
How It Works
This isn’t a plug-and-play solution—it requires thoughtful planning and configuration to maximize its potential. As an administrator, you’ll create an Opt-In group and access level, then assign it within the plugin settings. Here’s the process:
- When a user arrives with Do Not Track turned off, the plugin adds the specified access level, enabling any assigned components, modules, or plugins (e.g., those with tracking cookies) to run.
- When a user enables DNT, the access level is removed, blocking those elements and ensuring privacy compliance.
v5.2.2
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This seamless, automatic adjustment works for both logged-in users and guests, requiring no user action—privacy protection happens effortlessly in the background.
Why Choose System - Do Not Track?
For those unfamiliar with Do Not Track, visit www.eff.org/issues/do-not-track to learn more about this browser feature, which signals a user’s preference to opt out of online tracking. This plugin bridges Joomla’s capabilities with modern privacy standards, giving you granular control over tracking features while respecting user choices. It’s ideal for privacy-conscious sites, but success depends on careful setup—plan your access levels and assignments to align with your site’s needs.
Features
- Automatic Detection: No user interaction needed—detects DNT settings instantly.
- Dynamic Access Control: Adds or removes Joomla Access Levels based on DNT status, even for guests.
- Privacy Compliance: Ensures tracking components are disabled when users opt out, enhancing trust.
- Flexible Configuration: Requires strategic planning to assign components, modules, and plugins effectively.
- EU e-Privacy Directive: Directly and automatically integrates with the System - EU e-Privacy Directive plugin for consent management.
Download the Plugin
System - Do Not Track 5.2.23290
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the System - Do Not Track plugin do?
The plugin detects a user’s Do Not Track (DNT) browser setting and dynamically adds or removes a Joomla Access Level. This controls whether tracking-related components, modules, or plugins (e.g., those setting cookies) are enabled or disabled based on the user’s privacy preference.
Is this plugin a plug-and-play solution?
No, it requires careful planning and configuration. You must create a user group and access level (e.g., "Do Not Track - Opt-In"), assign it in the plugin settings, and link relevant components, modules, or plugins to this access level for effective privacy management.
Why should I use this plugin if the DNT header is mostly abandoned?
While DNT is less common, this plugin serves as an educational tool and integrates with the System - EU e-Privacy Directive plugin for GDPR and EU e-Privacy compliance. For practical use, consider the System - Global Privacy Control (GPC) plugin instead.
Does this plugin work for both logged-in users and guests?
Yes, it automatically detects DNT settings for both logged-in users and guests, adjusting access levels without requiring user interaction.
How does this plugin help with GDPR or EU e-Privacy Directive compliance?
It integrates with the System - EU e-Privacy Directive plugin, enabling site owners to manage tracking components based on user consent, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations by disabling tracking when DNT is enabled.
What happens if a user enables Do Not Track in their browser?
When DNT is enabled, the plugin removes the assigned Joomla Access Level, blocking components, modules, or plugins (e.g., those setting tracking cookies) from running, respecting the user’s privacy preference.
Can I use this plugin with Joomla 3, 4, or 5?
Yes, the plugin is compatible with Joomla 3, 4, and 5, ensuring flexibility across different Joomla versions.
How do I configure the plugin correctly?
- Create a "Do Not Track - Opt-In" user group under the "Public" parent group.
- Create a corresponding access level and assign it to this group.
- Assign tracking-related components, modules, or plugins to this access level.
- Configure the plugin settings to use this access level.
Detailed steps are available in the documentation (#).
Why is the System - Global Privacy Control (GPC) plugin recommended over this one?
The GPC plugin offers similar functionality but aligns with the more widely supported Global Privacy Control standard, making it a more relevant choice for modern privacy compliance. This plugin is primarily for learning and experimentation.
Where can I learn more about Do Not Track?
Visit www.eff.org/issues/do-not-track or http://donottrack.us/ for detailed information on the Do Not Track browser feature and its implications.
What if I don’t assign components or modules to the access level?
If no components, modules, or plugins are assigned to the configured access level, the plugin will have no effect, as it relies on access level assignments to control tracking elements.
Can I use this plugin alongside other privacy plugins?
Yes, it integrates seamlessly with the System - EU e-Privacy Directive plugin for comprehensive consent management, and it can complement other privacy-focused extensions with proper configuration.
Where can I download the plugin?
Download it from the RicheyWeb website by searching for "Do Not Track" at www.richeyweb.com. Follow the installation instructions in the documentation (#).
Is there a risk of breaking my site if I misconfigure the plugin?
Misconfiguration may result in tracking components loading incorrectly or not respecting DNT settings. However, it won’t break your site if you carefully follow the setup steps and test your configuration.
Who is this plugin for?
It’s ideal for Joomla developers, privacy-conscious site owners, and those experimenting with consent management. For production sites, the System - Global Privacy Control plugin is recommended instead.
