Analytics

"_pk_ref" Cookie

Matomo

Description

Used to store the attribution information, the referrer initially used to visit the website

Details

Cookie Name: _pk_ref
Category: Analytics
Service: Matomo
Duration: 6 months
Data Source: Open cookie db

Consent Requirement

This cookie is classified as analytics. Under GDPR, CCPA, and most privacy regulations, user consent is required before setting this cookie.

Consent Requirements by Regulation

GDPR & ePrivacy (EU)

Prior consent is required before setting _pk_ref. Analytics cookies are not covered by the strictly necessary exemption; only a few regulators (for example France's CNIL) allow a narrow exemption for first-party audience measurement under strict conditions.

UK GDPR & PECR

Consent is required before setting _pk_ref. The ICO treats analytics cookies as non-essential.

CCPA/CPRA (California)

Disclose _pk_ref in your privacy policy and honour opt-out requests, including the Global Privacy Control signal, if the analytics data is shared or sold.

Managing _pk_ref with a Consent Banner

A consent management platform keeps _pk_ref blocked until the visitor opts in to the analytics category. Kukie.io's scanner detects it automatically, categorises it, and the banner's auto-blocking holds back the script that sets it until consent is given - visitors who decline never receive it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the _pk_ref cookie require consent?

Yes. _pk_ref is an analytics cookie: under GDPR and the ePrivacy rules it may only be set after the visitor opts in, and CCPA requires disclosure plus an opt-out.

How long does the _pk_ref cookie last?

_pk_ref typically persists for 6 months. The exact lifetime can vary with the site's configuration and the version of the script that sets it.

Who sets the _pk_ref cookie?

_pk_ref is set by Matomo. It is categorised as analytics.

How do I block or delete the _pk_ref cookie?

Visitors can delete _pk_ref at any time through their browser's cookie settings. Site owners can keep it blocked until consent with a consent management platform: Kukie.io's auto-blocking holds analytics cookies back until the visitor opts in.