All sites on the internet that monetize with ads are required to have a TCF compliant consent management platform (CMP). This is to ensure that the information you're collecting about a visitor's privacy preferences get passed along to the services you use.

What is a TCF framework?

The TCF framework is something created by the IAB (Interactive Advertising Bureau) to meet the requirements of GDPR. There is one framework, one standard - so that any ad exchange can make sure they can interface with that framework and pass their ads alone.

There are MANY companies that have created consent management platforms that utilize this framework. So if you're looking for a particular appearance, particular features, there are options out there.

Do I have to use the SHE Media framework?

SHE offers a TCF v2.2 compliant framework free of charge to anyone in the network.  This is useful for sites who do not utilize anything else that collects data - we can manage it for you.

If you need more control over settings and appearance, you will need to get your own CMP so that you can ensure it's controlling everything it should be.  The CMP we use is set to reflect the SHE Media Collective's needs, and cannot be customized for your individual site beyond adding in your logo.

How do I integrate my site's CMP with SHE Media?

Because the framework follows a standard, it's more or less plug and play. You will want to make sure that you have any features selected in your consent management platform about TCF v2.2, or GPP/GPC selected.  (If you are using a free/low cost consent management platform - please make sure that these options are available to you. If they are not, even if your CMP is on the list, it will not be compatible.  An example is the CookieYes plugin- only their Pro and Ultimate plans give you access to the TCF framework and the GCP formatting.)

In our dashboard, you'll want to pay close attention to these options.

First, you'll want to check the box that says you elect not to use the Consent Management Platform SHE Media provides.  A drop down will appear, and you can select your CMP from that.

What if my CMP isn't listed?

We use Google's list of TCF 2.2 registered CMPs. If your CMP isn't on the list, you will want to reach out to your consent management platform's support team to see if they're going to get certified.  (And let us know as well, so that we can also keep an eye out for it being added to the list). We cannot add a CMP if they aren't on Google's approved list.

Resources: Google and IAB's list of TCF 2.2 Registered CMPs.

If I'm not in the EU do I need a CMP?

Yes. If you don't have a GDPR CMP, then we would not be able to serve ads to anyone covered by GDPR and you would be missing out on revenue. Moreover, if you are not presenting that audience with appropriate privacy options, you could be subject to fines set for GDPR violations.

v2.2 update to the TCF framework

Online privacy laws are an ever-evolving process. On 11/15/2023 the TCF framework updated from version 2.0 to 2.2, and with that come industry-wide changes.  And on 1/22/2024, SHE Media has changed our CMP to use Google's privacy framework.

This new version of the framework requires you to declare what TCF 2.2 compliant CMP you are using.  You will want to login to https://my.shemedia.com and go to Settings >> Site and Ads >> Regulatory Compliance.  You will now see a drop down where you can pick your CMP.  If your CMP is not listed in our dropdown, or on Google and IAB's list of TCF 2.2 registered CMPs, you will need to reach out to your CMP in order to ask them if they plan to be certified. And reach out to us, so that we can keep track of the progress of it being added to the registered list.

Ensure that your Consent Management Platform can handle both US based privacy laws, as well as GDPR.

With the changes to this framework - until you identify what CMP you are currently using in our dashboard, we will not be able to monetize your site fully.  So please, login and complete this step as soon as possible.

If you select Other, and your CMP is not on the list, we will not be able to monetize you properly.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to support@shemedia.zendesk.com to ask us any questions!