The digital world is changing rapidly – not only technologically but also legally. For website owners, designers, and developers, several new rules have been in effect or are in preparation since 2022 that you need to know to work safely, modern, and in compliance. Ignoring these changes risks not only warnings but also negative impacts on SEO, user experience, and visitor trust. Therefore, it is worth implementing the changes early and adjusting processes. A proactive approach protects against legal issues and also enhances the professionalism of your website. This way, your offerings remain not only attractive but also legally secure.
Important New Rules Overview
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Data Protection & External Services – e.g., Google Fonts
A landmark ruling from the Munich District Court on January 20, 2022, ruled that the dynamic integration of Google Fonts (i.e., loading the fonts directly from Google's servers) without explicit user consent violates GDPR because the visitor's IP address is transmitted to Google. "This decision highlights how crucial it is to ensure that all external services are integrated in compliance with data protection laws," experts emphasize. Website owners must take action to ensure legal security and minimize the risk of warnings.
Consequence: Website owners should host Google Fonts locally or use them only after obtaining explicit consent. Alternatively, other data protection-friendly fonts can be used. Regular checks ensure that new content does not accidentally violate GDPR.
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Hosting and Data Transfer to Third Countries
It has been emphasized time and again that transferring personal data (e.g., IP addresses) to countries without an adequate level of data protection (e.g., the USA) presents an increased risk. This applies to services like Google Fonts or external tracking/CDN services. "Those who use servers or services abroad must ensure that data protection requirements are met," advise legal experts. A careful hosting concept reduces the risk of fines and ensures compliance with legal requirements.
It is recommended to host data within the EU where possible or use binding Standard Contractual Clauses. Transparent documentation not only protects legally but also strengthens user trust.
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Accessibility Becomes Legally Binding – e.g., European Accessibility Act (EAA)
From June 28, 2025, the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act (BFSG) will make it a legal obligation for many digital offerings to be accessible, in accordance with the EN 301 549 standard, which reflects WCAG 2.1 or higher standards. "Websites that ignore accessibility risk not only legal sanctions but also losing users," experts warn. Implementing this will improve usability and user experience for all visitors.
What does this mean in practice? For example, texts must be readable, contrasts adequate, navigation by keyboard possible, and alternative texts for images available. Ignoring this will result in fines and legal consequences. Moreover, accessibility increases reach and enhances positive brand image. Companies that act early position themselves as responsible and future-proof.
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Cookie and Tracking Rules Tightened
While no completely new rule has been introduced since 2022, several data protection authorities and courts have clarified: Integrating cookies, tracking services, or external scripts generally requires prior consent. External services that are loaded without consent increase the risk of a warning. "Consent management and clear notices on the website are essential," experts emphasize. Users must have the option to transparently decide which data they share.
Regular updates and checks of consent tools ensure that new scripts and plugins are also legally integrated. This long-term protects against legal risks and increases the trustworthiness of the website.
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Design and Typography Rules to Keep in Mind: Fonts, Contrast & Motion Patterns
As a result of accessibility requirements, aspects such as font sizes, line spacing, contrast, and reduced animations are coming into focus. Designers and developers must ensure that websites are not only "nice" but also readable and accessible. Especially on mobile devices and older screens, good readability is crucial.
By considering these factors, companies not only improve accessibility but also enhance the overall user experience. Consistent design guidelines also ensure brand consistency and trust with visitors.
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Technical SEO & Page Speed Remain Essential
Although this is not a "new rule" in the legal sense, rankings and user experience have gained massive importance due to factors like loading times, mobile optimization, and Core Web Vitals. Developers must work with modern technology and clean code. "Fast, well-optimized websites look professional and reduce bounce rates," explain SEO experts. Core Web Vitals and performance metrics are now crucial for ranking and conversion.
Regular checks, caching strategies, and image or script optimization ensure that the website remains always performant. This pays off long-term in traffic, user satisfaction, and revenue.
Why These Rules Are Important for You
If you run or design a website (e.g., as a designer/developer), these changes are not coming "later" – many are already in effect. Ignoring data protection violations risks warnings. Neglecting accessibility will result in fines starting in 2025. Those who implement the rules early can optimize their processes, minimize risks, and simultaneously increase the quality and professionalism of the website. Compliance becomes part of daily workflows and strengthens trust with users and customers.
What You Should Do Specifically
- Check if you are using Google Fonts or other external services – and prove if the fonts are hosted locally or you have obtained consent.
- Ensure your website or web app is accessible according to EN 301 549 / WCAG 2.1 AA (or higher), especially from 2025 onwards.
- Conduct regular data protection audits: Which external services are being loaded? Which data is being transferred? Is consent obtained?
- Optimize your website technically – speed, responsive design, clean structure – to align UX, SEO, and legal compliance.
- Include documentation: privacy policy, imprint, accessibility statement (if applicable), and proof of hosting or hosting mode (e.g., for fonts).
Conclusion
Web design and web development are no longer just about aesthetics or technology – they are also about compliance, data protection, and accessibility. Those who react early minimize risks and create more professional offerings. At Aurelix, I combine modern design, clean development, and legally compliant implementation – so your website not only looks great but is also secure, fast, and accessible. Those who consider these rules will gain trust, reach, and long-term stability.
Image: freepik.com