Study Flags Privacy Issues Across UK Gambling Websites
A new study has raised concerns over how licensed UK gambling websites use cookies and collect user data.
Researchers from Swansea University’s GREAT Centre examined 624 gambling websites and found that 86% appeared to have at least one issue that could breach GDPR rules.
Around 24% of the websites did not provide users with an option to disable tracking software. The study also found that about two-thirds started collecting data before users had given consent.
Researchers said some of this data was sent to third-party analytics platforms. Operators may collect certain information before consent for legitimate purposes, such as checking a user’s location, but the study raised concerns about its wider use.
The research also found widespread use of so-called dark patterns. Around 60% of websites visually highlighted the option that allowed more data sharing, while 47% placed the reject option behind an additional step.
Ravi Naik, legal director at AWO, argued:
The findings in this report paint a picture of widespread and systemic non-compliance.
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office stated that it continues to monitor compliance across major websites and will take action when necessary.
Entain, owner of Ladbrokes, said data collected before consent was not used for advertising or marketing.
