Arguably the most important data protection legislation enacted to date is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It governs the collection, use, transmission, and security of data collected from residents of any of the 28 member countries of the European Union. The law applies to all EU residents, regardless of the location of the entity that collects the personal data.
Brazil’s General Law for the Protection of Personal Data, or the Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados Pessoais (LGPD) came into effect in 2020 and contains provisions and requirements related to the processing of personal data of individuals, where the data is of individuals located in Brazil, where the data is collected or processed in Brazil, or where the data is used to offer goods or services to individuals in Brazil.
Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) was enacted in 2000 and came into full force in 2009. It was last updated in 2015 by the Data Privacy Act but still falls somewhat short of the GDPR’s regulatory standard.
In the UK, data protection is governed by the UK GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and the DPA (Data Protection Act) 2018, which should be read together. All organisations in the UK that process personal data must comply with these two data privacy laws or risk fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of annual global turnover – whichever is greater.
Complete data legislation, by jurisdiction, highlighting individual rights and business requirements, may be found here.
Data Privacy is currently a legal requirement in 137 countries globally with the majority of those remaining expected to follow suit. Government regulators actively enforce these regulations, resulting in numerous fines and sanctions.
Platform providers that collect and store data must comply with these requirements for all data stored on their systems.
To avoid penalties, operators are required to establish internal privacy procedures and verify that platforms are performing adequate data privacy verifications.
Data privacy regulations are only enforced in certain countries.
Contrary to a common misconception, data privacy laws extend beyond national boundaries. Various countries, including Brazil with its LGPD privacy law, enforce specific regulations that companies must comply with when collecting and processing data within their jurisdictions.
These regulations typically address the handling, storage, and collection of personal data. Whether an organisation is a multinational corporation or a small business operating across borders, it is imperative to be well-versed in the diverse landscape of data privacy laws and regulations.
Some notable examples encompass the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), EU ePrivacy Directive, California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), California Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), and Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).
Data Privacy doesn’t apply to us.
if you have employee data – or any data that identifies a player or person – then you are responsible for the data privacy of those players or persons. From an Operator that outsources everything to an affiliate that just handles traffic, to a game company, CRM company, or a processor, every company has to have a specific privacy program in operation.
Both your company and the platforms you use have legal and regulatory responsibilities as Data Processors and Data Controllers. If you have data about a citizen that crosses a border, you are also at risk.
It is too expensive to implement.
Many companies, especially companies that are smaller, think that it may be too expensive to implement data privacy and security protocols. Fortunately, data privacy is such a widespread concern that we have affordable solutions that scale to fit.
We have a compliance team.
The typical compliance team does an amazing job with KYC, AML, problem gamblers and in many cases GDPR. However, we find that many compliance teams are using spreadsheets and manual processes, do not have access to legal resources/databases and are often unaware of the constantly changing laws.
Privacy by Design compliance concepts are often not understood by Product teams.
Compliance teams are also not generally involved in product or revenue and would not have the capabilities to take Privacy from a necessary regulatory expense to a multi-million dollar annual revenue stream.
It is only a concern for large companies.
It’s a misconception that only large companies face data breaches. While larger organisations may attract more attention due to vast amounts of data, small and medium-sized businesses are not exempt from data privacy regulations. Every business, regardless of size, must prioritise securing sensitive information, as attackers may deliberately target smaller entities with less robust data privacy measures. Neglecting data governance can also make companies vulnerable to insider attacks. In addition to potential compliance fines, data breaches can erode customer trust and damage an organisation’s reputation. Even if a company hasn’t faced a data attack previously, it doesn’t guarantee immunity in the future.
It is only relevant for personal information.
A frequent misconception is that data privacy exclusively concerns personal information, but in reality, it encompasses various data types. While personal data is one aspect, organisations also gather demographic, customer, business, employee, financial, and other data sets for categorization. Safeguarding all these data types from breaches and attacks is crucial for organisations. In essence, data privacy is essential for both individuals and organisations, safeguarding confidential information from unauthorised access and use.
GDPR makes data protection a one-time effort.
Some people believe that complying with GDPR is a one-time effort and that once the necessary measures are in place, they can forget about it. This is not true. Data protection is an ongoing process and companies must continuously review and update their practices to ensure they remain in compliance with GDPR.
GDPR only applies to companies in the EU.
This is one of the biggest misconceptions about GDPR. In reality, the GDPR applies to any company that processes the personal data of EU citizens, regardless of the company’s location.
People don’t care about privacy.
Companies have always collected data about consumers. But before, there were no laws dictating what kind of data they could collect, and few consumers placed any real value on protecting their data. That’s all changing.
We have Cookies.
It’s not enough; you need a comprehensive privacy program.
130 countries have data privacy regulations creating compliance issues in every country where you operate. Data privacy is a key component of meeting new and increasingly difficult advertising laws. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to create new revenue streams.
Privacy and personalization are at odds with one another.
While data privacy concerns are ticking upwards, research reveals that 80% of consumers are still willing to give out their information in exchange for more value and better experiences. They just don’t like most companies’ approach; only 22% of consumers indicate the information companies collect about their behaviour makes their online experiences better.
Marketers are out of options
While throwing your arms up in frustration over the chaotic, complicated privacy landscape may be tempting, there are ways to move forward. Privacy regulation and the death of the third-party cookie are creating opportunities to increase the size and value of privacy-compliant first-party data. In fact, 76% of companies now say they’re investing in a first-party data strategy.
Data monetization is only for big companies
A widespread misconception surrounding data monetization is the belief that it’s exclusive to large corporations with extensive data and resources. Contrary to this, the feasibility of data monetization lies in the quality and relevance of insights rather than the quantity of data. Even small and medium-sized businesses can leverage data monetization successfully by adopting a clear strategy, a defined value proposition and a customer-centric approach. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a tailored and creative process adaptable to any business model or industry.
Data monetization is easy and quick
A prevailing misunderstanding regarding data monetization is that it provides a quick and easy path to earning money from data. However, this notion is inaccurate. Data monetization is a complex and demanding undertaking that necessitates meticulous planning, execution, and assessment. The process involves various steps, including identifying data sources, ensuring data quality and security, analysing and interpreting data, designing and testing data products or services and measuring and enhancing the outcomes.
Monetising data is the same as selling data
Another misconception about data monetization is that it is synonymous with data selling. However, this is not true. Data selling is only one of the many ways to monetize data, and not necessarily the most profitable or sustainable one.
- Data selling involves transferring the ownership and control of the data to a third party in exchange for a fee. Data monetization, on the other hand, involves creating and delivering value from the data to your own business or customers, without necessarily losing the ownership or control of the data.
- Data monetization is not a single transaction, but a value proposition that can take various forms, such as data analytics, data visualisation, data enrichment, data sharing, or data as a service.
We have privacy solutions for enterprises of all sizes, from start-ups to large companies that operate across multiple jurisdictions, yet whether you are a small, medium-sized or multi-brand business, our services are best viewed as a step-by-step road-map where achieving compliance with Privacy Regulations unlocks interesting advertising opportunities and the potential to monetise existing data.
A. ASSESS
Non-intrusive, targeted audit and focused assessment of systems, policies, processes, applicable legal frameworks, partner liabilities and cybersecurity set-up to determine the current state of privacy compliance and cyber-exposure of your organisation.
Identification of existing gaps, areas for improvement, steps and modules required to demonstrate regulatory compliance – privacy and data security laws require organisations to maintain written documentation of their policies and evidence of compliance, in many cases even in the absence of a statutory requirement.
B. REMEDIATE
Implementation of the necessary technological platform and training to address areas of non-compliance or areas with room for improvement.
The implementation of our core data privacy program provides all evident and necessary reports such as Article 30 reports (GDPR), RPOA and other risk reporting mechanisms for regulators.
We will also provide for the certification of processes, policies and set-up required to demonstrate good business practice to clients and B2B partners.
C. MONETISE
Once your data has been “privacy-wrapped” we will use the data to create data sets and AI-based models that can be implemented throughout your organisation across all systems and databases. This “privacy wrapper” – the PEE (Privacy Enabled Enterprise) – is a combination of technology, process and algorithms that create an internal data platform that will provide the launch point for monetization.
The data can be monetised in three different ways:
- By leveraging 1st party data to create unique audience profiles.
“Privacy-wrapped” 1st party behavioural data is an untapped resource that can be leveraged to create new direct-to-player marketing opportunities. - By enriching 1st party data to drive high-impact AI-powered programmatic player acquisition.
Insight-driven data-sets data-sets can be used to acquire audiences at scale, by using advanced programmatic digital advertising and engagement techniques for player acquisition. Optimally engages tens of thousands of potential new customers from an untainted pool (who would not normally engage in betting activities) using the same advanced behavioural data science that is being used by large scale entertainment and media brands globally but is not yet best-practice in the iGaming industry. - By enriching 1st and 3rd party data to create high-value data-sets that can be sold.
This quality of enriched data is extremely valuable to big brands and data brokers and can easily be monetised. Should you desire to do so, we offer the necessary data brokerage services.
Privacy as a Service
‘Privacy as a Service’ is a managed service on a global technology platform that provides the necessary capabilities, ensures comprehensive compliance for local operations and cross-border data flows and streamlines consent, preference and inventory management.
Managed Data Privacy Program
Complies with requirements worldwide. EU (GDPR), LATAM, Brazil (LGPD), as well as compliance with new US States’ requirements.
iGaming Privacy Certification Program
To meet regulatory, insurance and other legal requirements.
Privacy implementation
Design, configuration and implementation of privacy technologies in your enterprise including data-mapping, cookie consent, mobile DSAR and risk management.
Consulting
Our Global privacy team comprises highly skilled privacy experts and lawyers and a technology and process improvement team that use advanced privacy technologies and risk methodologies and are able to offer a comprehensive array of services to address your privacy requirements.
Additionally, we provide retainer-based services including fractional Data Protection Officer, Incident Response Red Team, Privacy Training and Awareness, and Regulatory Compliance Certification.
Provider Solutions
Scalable privacy programs that support client programs worldwide.
Operator Solutions
Reputation and regulatory risk management. Scalable for growth in new markets.
Data Services for Advanced Advertising
We offer novel solutions for your “privacy-wrapped” data:
- Advanced AI and ML based data-acquisition and retention on 1st party and 3rd party data sets.
- Managed targeted advertising to operate within the framework of updated national advertising laws.
- Advanced AI algorithms, machine learning and data models to deliver ads to specific people.
- Privacy-enabled solutions to meet Data privacy laws.
- iGaming Data Privacy Certification process
- Outsourced Managed Data Privacy Services for EU (GDPR), Brazil (LGPD) and laws worldwide.
- DPO Services including reporting and workflow.
- 3rd Party Risk Programs.
- Data Privacy platform includes AI, bot privacy, consent, data-mapping, research & readiness, 3rd party, risk mgmt, GRC, DSAR mgmt, ESG and KYC integration.
Trust
A well-formed privacy framework establishes transparent data practices, earning user trust and confidence in how their personal information is handled.
Compliance
Adherence to global privacy laws ensures legal compliance, mitigating the risk of hefty fines and legal consequences, thereby safeguarding the organisation’s reputation.
Minimised Data-Breach Risks
A robust privacy framework includes rigorous security measures, reducing the likelihood of data breaches and protecting sensitive user information from unauthorised access.
Strategic Marketing Advantage
Leveraging privacy-enabled data for marketing purposes provides a competitive edge by demonstrating commitment to user privacy, promoting positive brand perception and attracting privacy-conscious consumers.
Cost Savings and Efficiency
Complying with privacy regulations proactively minimises the risk of costly legal battles, regulatory fines and reputational damage, leading to long-term cost savings and operational efficiency.
Customer-Centric Innovation
A privacy-focused approach encourages responsible data usage, cultivating a culture of innovation that prioritises the creation of products and services aligned with customer expectations and privacy preferences.
Novel Growth Opportunities
Harnessing privacy-enabled data ethically and in compliance with regulations unlocks new avenues for business growth, as organisations can confidently leverage valuable insights for targeted marketing, personalised customer experiences and strategic decision-making.
Turn data into revenue
Our Data Sales Layer transforms your 1st party data into revenue. Mainstream brands such as retailers use large data sets for their advertising and marketing insights to help them better target their consumers. Gaming data is a rich source of data that, if properly privacy enabled, brands will buy.
We utilise our privacy techniques combined with AI and Machine learning to convert your data into a high value asset that consistently generates revenue.
No-fuss adherence to advertising laws
New restrictive advertising laws (ie Holland) are creating a number of challenges for the industry. With our systems you will be able to work with and within these laws to advertise easily and effectively.
Our Privacy as a Service is a managed solution leveraging a global technology platform, offering comprehensive compliance for local and cross-border operations. It streamlines consent, preference and inventory management.
We specialize in GDPR, LGPD and compliance with any new US States’ requirements, providing tailored programs that manage and ensure adherence to specific regional data privacy regulations.
Our Provider Solutions offer scalable privacy programs supporting clients globally, facilitating seamless operations and compliance in diverse markets.
We provide scalable solutions for reputation and regulatory risk management, tailored for growth in new markets and ensuring compliance with evolving privacy standards.
Our framework enables ethical data sales, unlocking revenue opportunities by leveraging privacy-enabled data in compliance with regulations.
We offer comprehensive 3rd Party Risk Program management, including robust reporting, to identify, assess and mitigate risks associated with external partners.
Our Enterprise SAAS technology covers AI and bot privacy, consent management, data mapping, research & readiness, 3rd party risk management, GRC, DSAR management, ESG, and KYC integration.
Google Opt-out is insufficient. Google’s Terms and Conditions protect Google, not you.
The free version is unlawful with data tracking of European citizens. A company was recently fined over $1M USD for using free Google Analytics in this manner.
EU regulators can impose fines up to 4% of global revenue.
Brazilian regulators can impose fines up to $10M USD.
We are currently offering a free data privacy and cyber risk assessment as a preliminary step to our comprehensive roadmap. You may take advantage of this offer to gain valuable insights on your next steps towards compliance.
Disclaimer: In compliance with the Corporate Service Provider Act, which mandates that individuals or entities operating in or from Malta and holding themselves out as company service providers must seek authorization from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), it is important to clarify that IGA Group (referred to as “IGA” herein) does not possess a Corporate Service Provider (CSP) licence. IGA operates through a strategic partner to provide its services. This disclaimer serves to inform stakeholders that while IGA is not a licensed CSP, it adheres to legal requirements through a collaborative approach with a recognized and authorised partner. Any inquiries related to the authorization status of IGA as a company service provider should be directed to the relevant regulatory authorities.