GDPR and Google Fonts

Google Fonts is a popular service that allows web developers to use a variety of fonts on their websites. However, according to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Google Fonts may be considered in breach of privacy rules. The underlying issue is related to the way Google Fonts processes the data of data subjects.

When a website uploads fonts from Google Fonts, Google’s servers collect user requests, retrieve the necessary files from their servers and deliver them to the users to generate the fonts. In the process, the Google server logs the user’s IP address, which under GDPR is considered personal information. Collecting and sharing this information with third party services without the user’s consent is a violation of the GDPR.

To remain GDPR compliant, web developers have two main options.

The first option is to host Google fonts locally on the web server. This involves downloading the font files and uploading them to the web server, using the @font-face rule in the CSS to reference the font files and use them on the website. This method eliminates the need to send requests to Google’s servers, thus protecting users’ personal data.

The second option is to obtain user consent before uploading fonts from Google’s servers. If consent is not obtained, the Google Font API should be disabled to prevent the collection of IP addresses.

In conclusion, it is essential for web developers to be aware of GDPR rules and implement data management practices that protect user privacy. By understanding how Google Fonts processes data and choosing an appropriate compliance method, developers can continue to deliver enhanced web experiences without compromising users’ privacy rights.