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Concerns have been raised over "dark patterns" inherent in some gambling platforms, registered locally.
The Office of the Data Protection Authority recently took a closer look at these concerns, which included the use of techniques that steer users towards a less privacy-friendly route.
This happened after the OPDA took part in an annual ‘Privacy sweep' during the Global Privacy Enforcement Network.
This ‘sweep’ examined 19 online gaming sites in the Bailiwick, with the ODPA confirming there were “indicators of deceptive designs in all sites swept”.
The ODPA said it then worked closely with, and shared the outcomes of its research with the Alderney Gambling Control Commission.
In almost half of the sweeps, the ODPA found it was difficult to locate the website or applications privacy settings.
The ODPA said this can prevent users from being in control of their data.
Pictured: Brent Homan, the Data Protection Commissioner.
Although most sites had a privacy policy or something similar, as required by Bailiwick Law, these documents are required to be provided in a way that is understandable, and the Data Protection Authority said that these lengthy and complex documents might hinder comprehension.
The sweep also found that in many cases it was more difficult to delete an account, then it was to create one. The process found that in some cases, users had to escalate requests to remove accounts, and then provide more information than was needed to set up an account.
Following ‘the sweep’ the ODPA spoke to all operators running concerning sites, inviting them to work together and improve their data protection practices. 78% of those companies made commitments to address the ODPA’s concerns.
Brent Homan is the Data Protection Commissioner.
“We applaud the companies’ willingness to address the dark patterns concerns raised in our sweep of the gambling sector.
“Their collective efforts will lead to a greater respect for customers’ privacy and consumer rights that will resonate across the globe.”
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