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Has Google Analytics lost accuracy now that cookie consent is required? - Yes! Google Analytics (GA4) has faced challenges in terms of data accuracy due to the introduction of cookie consent requirements and privacy regulations like the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act). These regulations mandate that websites must obtain explicit consent from users before tracking them using cookies, which are a key component of how GA collects data. When users decline cookie consent, their activity is not tracked by Google Analytics, leading to gaps in data. This can result in incomplete datasets and underreported traffic, especially in regions with strict privacy regulations. GA4 has made strides to be more privacy-friendly. Unlike its predecessor, it doesn't store IP addresses or allow collection of personally identifiable information (PII). However, this doesn't completely eliminate the need for cookie notices. This security comes at the price of data integrity. Google has introduced Consent Mode, which allows for some data collection even when users don't consent to cookies by sending what is called cookieless pings to Google, allowing for some non-personal data collection. GA4 also uses behavioral modeling and conversion modeling which estimates user behavior patterns and engagement on user paths through the website. Website owners can track the impact of cookie consent on their metrics by using annotations in Google Analytics and comparing data before and after implementing cookie consent popups. #LookingFor-GA-Alternatives