For consent to be valid under Article 6, it must be clear, unambiguous, freely given, and based on an informed and specific choice by the Data Subject. The Controller must ensure that the Data Subject understands the purpose of the processing and the nature of the data being collected. Consent must be expressed in a way that clearly indicates agreement, such as through a written, electronic, or verbal statement. Silence, pre-ticked boxes, or inactivity do not constitute valid consent. 

Yes, Data Subjects have the right to withdraw their consent at any time. However, the withdrawal does not affect the legality of data processing that was carried out before the consent was withdrawn. This means any processing conducted while the consent was valid remains lawful. Controllers must document the timeline of consent and its withdrawal to demonstrate compliance. 

Controllers are required to provide Data Subjects with a simple and accessible way to withdraw their consent at any time. The mechanism should be as easy as giving consent—such as through a settings panel, account management interface, or direct contact option. Upon receiving the withdrawal, the Controller must cease processing unless another legal basis applies (e.g., legal obligation or contract performance).