Google Maps

Google Maps is a widely used tool that is used on many websites to display locations, plan routes or provide geographical information to visitors. The integration of Google Maps on a website can therefore help to significantly improve the user experience.

Integration of Google Maps

The integration of Google Maps on a website is usually done via an <iframe> element or through the Google Maps JavaScript API. This allows developers to insert and customize maps into their pages to meet the needs of their users. Integration via an iframe is intended for private websites, while the API is intended for commercial use.

Integration via HTML iframe:

If you have already created a Google Maps entry, the map can be embedded in your website as follows:

1. Call up your Google Maps entry
2. Click on "Share" in the page navigation
3. Select the "Embed maps" tab
4. Copy the HTML code displayed there
5. Embed the HTML code in the place on your website where you want the map to appear

Integrate Google Maps via API for commercial websites:

As already mentioned, the integration via Google API is intended for commercial purposes, there are costs that are measured by the interactions with the map. The use of the API is therefore not free of charge! To use the Google Maps API, proceed as follows:

1. Select the desired API in the Google API Picker
2. Log in to the Google Cloud platform
3. If you do not already have one, create a billing account
4. Click on "APIs" in the page navigation
5. Enter website and generate personal API key
6. Integrate the personal source code into your website

Please note that IT knowledge may be required to integrate an API.

Data protection and GDPR with GMaps

The use of Google Maps on a website entails some data protection considerations, especially with regard to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). When Google Maps is embedded, data about the user is transmitted to Google. This may include IP addresses, location data and other personal information.
To comply with data protection requirements, website operators should take the following steps:

1. Obtain consent:
   The express consent of users should be obtained before Google Maps is displayed on the website. This can be done by means of a cookie banner or a declaration of consent that informs users about the data processing.
2. Adapt data protection provisions:
   The website's privacy policy should contain detailed information about the use of Google Maps, including the type of data collected, how Google uses it and users' rights.
3. Check privacy-friendly alternatives:
   In some cases, it may make sense to consider more privacy-friendly alternatives to Google Maps, especially if privacy requirements are particularly strict.

You can find more information on the privacy-compliant integration of Google Maps in our documentation on the integration of Google Maps. Here you will find detailed instructions and tips for correct handling in accordance with the GDPR requirements.