Technology
UK gambling websites breach data privacy regulations, study finds
The Guardian reports that most licensed British betting sites violate cookie tracking rules, according to university research.
The short version
- A study from Swansea University's GREAT Centre found that 86% of licensed British gambling sites appear to breach GDPR rules on cookie banners.[The Guardian]
- Researchers discovered that two-thirds of examined operators collect user data before receiving consent, while nearly a quarter offer no way to disable tracking software.[The Guardian]
- Data privacy advocates criticized the Information Commissioner's Office for lax enforcement, while the regulator stated it monitors compliance and acts when necessary.[The Guardian]
Key facts
- A Swansea University study found 86% of licensed UK gambling websites appear to breach GDPR rules on cookie banners.[The Guardian]
- Two-thirds of evaluated online gambling operators harvested user data before consent was provided.[The Guardian]
- Nearly 24% of 624 tested gambling websites lacked an option to turn off tracking software.[The Guardian]
- The Information Commissioner's Office stated it remains committed to monitoring compliance and enforcing lawful cookie practices.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- Whether the Information Commissioner's Office will pursue formal enforcement penalties against the non-compliant gambling operators identified in the study.[The Guardian]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Online bookies accused of UK privacy breaches with use of cookie bannersThe Guardian - World