Sling TV has agreed to pay $530,000 to settle a California lawsuit that accused the streaming service of making it too difficult for consumers to stop the sale of their personal data and failing to adequately protect children’s privacy.
Settlement Details
The lawsuit alleged that Sling TV confused and misled users looking to exercise their right to prevent the sale of their information under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Investigators found that the opt-out process was overly complex, at times redirecting consumers to cookie settings that did not fully halt the sharing of personal data. As part of the agreement, Sling TV—owned by Dish Network—will streamline its opt-out procedures, making it easier for users to stop the sale of their information directly in the app and providing parents with dedicated tools and clear disclosures to reduce data collection on children’s profiles.
Broad Impact for Consumers
This case is part of a larger investigation into how streaming services handle personal information. The settlement requires changes that not only address current concerns but also set a precedent for clearer, more accessible data privacy options for consumers across the industry. California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized that the enforcement action signals the state’s commitment to ensuring people can control their data with simple, effective tools.
Sling TV’s Response
A Sling TV spokesperson said the company has implemented privacy updates to address regulators’ demands, stating, “While we disagree with certain characterizations, Sling remains committed to respecting the privacy rights of its customers.” The company must submit to ongoing oversight and prove it complies with stricter privacy requirements moving forward.
What’s Next
The settlement, still subject to court approval, comes as many streaming services face increased scrutiny for their data practices. More agreements and lawsuits are likely as California pushes for transparency and consumer empowerment in the evolving digital landscape.