Sling TV Resolves California Data Privacy Lawsuit, Leading Streaming Services’ Compliance
Sling TV has agreed to a settlement of $530,000 to resolve a lawsuit filed in California regarding data privacy practices. The lawsuit highlighted the platform’s failure to provide an accessible method for consumers to prevent the sale of their personal information. It also raised concerns about inadequate privacy protections for children.
Sling TV’s Commitment to Compliance
As part of this settlement, Sling TV, which is owned by Dish Network, will enhance its data privacy measures. The company will simplify the opt-out process, ensuring that parents receive clear information and tools to limit data collection concerning their children.
Background on the Lawsuit
The lawsuit centers on violations of the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), which mandates that businesses must offer consumers a straightforward mechanism to opt out of data sales. The CCPA also grants individuals the right to understand how their data is collected and shared.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the importance of consumer rights, stating that Sling TV failed to provide an easy opt-out option as required by law.
Issues with Data Management
- Sling TV misdirected users attempting to opt out to its cookie preference controls, which do not encompass all data sharing methods.
- Consumers had difficulty navigating the opt-out process, often requiring multiple steps and hard-to-find links.
- The platform lacked a designated option within its apps to facilitate a simple opt-out for users.
Changes to Child Privacy Protections
Another critical issue was Sling TV’s failure to offer a suitable profile setting for children. Unlike other streaming services, Sling TV did not allow parents to create profiles that limit targeted advertising for child users.
The settlement will mandate Sling TV to establish at least one user profile specifically for children, designed to collect minimal personal information by default.
Future Implications
This resolution signifies a significant step toward enhancing privacy standards across streaming platforms. Further investigations into other streaming services may follow, as regulators continue to ensure compliance with consumer privacy rights.
Sling TV expressed its commitment to addressing the California Department of Justice’s concerns, while still maintaining some disagreement over certain aspects of the allegations.
