Action taken against Sky Betting and Gaming for using cookies without consent!   

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has taken formal action against Sky Betting and Gaming for failing to comply with cookie consent requirements. Between January and March 2023, Sky Betting placed advertising cookies and processed users’ personal data without obtaining proper consent. Users were tracked, and their data was shared with third-party advertisers before they had an opportunity to opt out. The ICO emphasized that this violated the UK GDPR, stating: “people must have control over how their data is used.” Although the breach wasn’t deliberate, Sky Betting has updated its cookie practices following ICO intervention.

The ICO’s wider initiative focuses on ensuring transparency in cookie consent mechanisms, requiring that users are fully informed and given the opportunity to accept or reject cookies before they are used. The case highlights the regulator’s ongoing enforcement of data protection standards, particularly in the gambling industry, where targeted advertising is prevalent. A spokesperson for the ICO commented that organizations need to ensure “clear and upfront information” when it comes to obtaining consent for cookie use.

It was stated that Sky Betting and Gaming has cooperated with the ICO and has now implemented changes to its website to ensure compliance. This includes revising cookie banners to ensure users are fully informed before any data processing occurs. The ICO continues to monitor compliance, warning that future breaches of cookie regulations will face enforcement actions, including fines.

For further details, the ICO’s full report can be accessed here

and if you’re a Gambling operator looking for assistance complying with UK-GDPR, ISO27001 or any legislation applicable to gambling, please contact us for a free consultation!