RGA offers guidance for new data protection laws

The Remote Gambling Association (RGA) has published guidance to help licensed gambling operators comply with obligations under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Due to come into force on May 25, the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission will use the GDPR to strengthen and unify data protection across the European Union (EU).

The RGA said the new regulations pose a number of challenges to companies in the gambling sector, with plans to review and update its guidance as and when greater clarity or better practice emerges.

For companies active in the UK, the RGA said that the guidelines should be read in association with information and advice provided by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

The RGA noted that operators should particularly be aware of general guidance published by the ICO and additional information note issued by the UK Gambling Commission.

Clive Hawkswood, chief executive of the RGA, said: “The principles which underpin the GDPR reflect the importance of safeguarding personal data and ensuring that it is used only where it is appropriate to do so.

“Unfortunately, there remains a good deal of uncertainty about the GDPR’s precise interpretation and application.

“This guidance is designed to help our sector navigate its way through the requirements as they are presently understood.

“It has had input from a wide range of stakeholders and we are heavily indebted to the ICO for the constructive and supportive advice it has provided at different stages of the process.”

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