3 Ways to Collect First-Party Data in a Cookie-Less World

As third-party cookies disappear and user privacy takes center stage, marketers face a new reality: it is time to shift strategies. Apple’s iOS 14 update and Google’s ongoing privacy changes are making it harder to rely on traditional targeting methods. The good news? First-party data is more powerful - and more essential - than ever.

In this blog, we will explore what first-party data really is, why it matters, and three effective ways to start collecting more of it - today.

What Is First-Party Data?

Before diving into strategies, let us define the types of data marketers deal with:

• First-party data is the information you collect directly from your users via your website, apps, emails, SMS campaigns, and CRM. It is accurate, compliant, and valuable—but can be hard to scale.

• Second-party data is someone else’s first-party data, often shared in a partnership.

• Third-party data is aggregated from multiple sources by external providers. It is less precise and less future-proof due to upcoming privacy regulations.

With iOS users now opting out of tracking and Google phasing out third-party cookies, building a strong foundation of first-party data is key to long-term marketing success.

1. Use Lead-Generation Campaigns to Collect Direct Data

One of the most effective ways to collect first-party data is by asking for it - strategically.

Use lead-gen forms across high-performing channels like your website, SMS landing pages, LinkedIn, Facebook, and even QR code campaigns.

Capture relevant details such as:

• Name

• Email

• Phone number

• Product preferences

• Consent for marketing

These forms can be placed in gated content, contests, service sign-ups, or SMS promotions. When integrated with a mobile platform like MyLINK MarketingPlatform, the data flows directly into your CRM and can trigger automated campaigns across channels.

2. Leverage New Messaging Channels to Build Engagement

Diversifying your communication channels not only increases reach - it creates more opportunities to gather user information and permissions.

Start using:

• SMS and RCS

• WhatsApp Business Messages

• Viber

• Email

• Conversational AI chatbots

These channels allow businesses to start personal conversations with users who are more likely to opt in. With LINK Mobility, you can launch compliant multi-channel campaigns that guide users through signup flows, quizzes, or interactive promotions - all while collecting consent and contact data.

3. Focus on Brand-Building to Earn Trust and Data

People share information with brands they trust. That is why strong branding is essential in a privacy-first world.

Use mobile-first marketing tactics to:

• Share loyalty rewards or vouchers

• Launch mobile games or quizzes

• Run NPS surveys or contests

• Send exclusive offers through WhatsApp or SMS

Make data collection feel like a fair exchange - offer real value in return. As users engage more, they become more willing to share data that fuels future campaigns.

Brand awareness and trust take time, but they pay off in long-term customer loyalty and data depth.

Start Building First-Party Data Now

As tracking restrictions increase, relying on platforms to provide customer insights is no longer enough. Brands that act now to collect and activate first-party data will be better equipped to navigate the next phase of digital marketing.

LINK Mobility helps businesses run compliant, effective campaigns using channels that convert. From opt-in forms and loyalty programs to SMS, WhatsApp, and conversational campaigns - our platform is built to help you scale first-party data collection with ease.