Does the MSO cookie need consent?

Usually yes. MSO is a functional cookie, and unless it is strictly necessary for a feature the visitor asked for, it needs consent before it is set.

How long does the MSO cookie last?

MSO usually lasts 1 Year. The exact lifetime depends on the site's settings and the version of the script that sets it.

Who sets the MSO cookie?

MSO is set by Microsoft. It is in the Functional category.

How do I block or delete the MSO cookie?

Visitors can delete MSO in their browser's cookie settings. On your own website, a consent banner can keep the script that sets it waiting until the visitor accepts functional cookies. Kukie.io's banner does this for known trackers by default, and for any other script you tag with its category.

Functional

MSO cookie

Set by Microsoft.

What it does

This cookie identifies a session

Cookie name: MSO
Category: Functional
Provider: Microsoft
Duration: 1 Year
Data source: Open Cookie Database (opens in a new tab)

Consent

Usually needed

MSO is in the Functional category. Functional cookies usually need the visitor's consent, unless the cookie is strictly necessary for something the visitor asked for, such as remembering a language they just chose.

GDPR and ePrivacy (EU): Consent is needed before setting MSO, unless it is strictly necessary for a feature the visitor asked for, such as remembering a language they just chose.
UK GDPR and PECR: The same as in the EU: consent first, unless the cookie qualifies for the strictly necessary exemption.
CCPA and CPRA (California): Disclose MSO in your privacy policy. If the data it stores is shared with third parties, honour opt-out requests, including the Global Privacy Control signal.

Managing MSO with a consent banner

A consent banner can keep the script that sets MSO waiting until the visitor accepts functional cookies. Kukie.io's cookie scanner finds MSO and sorts it into a category. The banner holds back known trackers by default, and any other script you tag with its category waits too.

Learn more about script blocking

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