The UK ICO has threatened to take action against gambling companies that fail to comply with data protection legislation.

On November 21, 2023, the UK Information Commissioners Office issued a warning, stating that websites not complying with data protection laws on advertising cookies may face enforcement action.

The ICO is specifically concerned about websites not providing fair choices to users regarding personalized advertising tracking. They emphasized guidance from August 2023, stressing that users should easily reject advertising cookies, and companies failing to make necessary changes might face consequences.

The ICO has written to major website operators, setting a 30-day deadline for compliance.

 

[CR7]

Thank you for sharing this news about the UK ICO's warning regarding data protection laws on advertising cookies. It's indeed an important development in terms of safeguarding user privacy online.

The ICO's emphasis on providing fair choices to users when it comes to personalized advertising tracking is commendable. It shows their commitment to ensuring that individuals have control over their own data and how it is used for targeted advertising.

By setting a 30-day deadline for compliance and writing to major website operators, the ICO is sending a clear message that they expect swift action. This deadline should motivate these companies to review their data protection practices and make the necessary changes to provide users with the ability to easily reject advertising cookies.

Enforcement action by the ICO can have significant consequences for non-compliant gambling companies. It may include fines, site suspension, or even legal action. Therefore, it is crucial for these companies to take this warning seriously and align their practices with the ICO's guidance.

Overall, this move by the UK ICO highlights the growing importance of data protection and privacy in the digital sphere. It serves as a reminder to gambling companies, and the wider industry, that they must prioritize the rights and choices of individuals when it comes to their personal data.