In a notable case regarding data privacy practices in the streaming industry, Sling TV has consented to a settlement of $530,000 in response to allegations by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) concerning inadequate user control over personal information, particularly regarding children’s data. This settlement highlights an increasing scrutiny on how streaming services manage user data under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
The complaint filed against Sling TV, which is owned by Dish Network, claimed that the platform employed deceptive design practices, making it challenging for consumers, especially parents, to opt out of data sales. It was reported that users were misled into believing that disabling cookies would halt all data sharing practices, while in reality, cookies were merely one method of data collection. Users faced substantial barriers in their attempts to fully opt out, requiring them to navigate convoluted online processes outside of the app, which was deemed “confusing and inaccessible” by regulators.
A significant point of contention in the lawsuit centered around the handling of children’s personal information. The CCPA mandates that businesses must obtain parental consent before collecting data from users under the age of 13. The DOJ alleged that Sling TV did not provide adequate measures, such as child-specific profiles that restrict data collection or targeted advertising, nor did it have systems in place to ensure parental permissions for tracking.
As part of the settlement agreement, Sling TV has committed to improving its privacy practices, which includes the introduction of a child-specific profile that will default to not collecting personal information. This change aims to foster a safer online environment for younger viewers while addressing parental concerns about data exposure.
Sling TV issued a statement expressing satisfaction at reaching a resolution with the DOJ and emphasized its commitment to enhancing privacy measures in response to the complaints. California Attorney General Rob Bonta also commented, reinforcing the notion that the ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of privacy rights in the streaming industry, as similar investigations into other streaming platforms are ongoing to ensure compliance with state privacy laws.
This settlement serves as a critical reminder for parents, highlighting the necessity for vigilance regarding digital privacy, especially related to their children’s online activities. Experts suggest that parents regularly review privacy settings on streaming applications, create dedicated profiles for children, implement device-level controls, and remain informed about privacy policies and opt-out options. As streaming services continue to grow, ensuring the protection of personal data and maintaining user trust remains imperative.