As if you need to be told at this stage, Pokemon Go has been a rip-roaring success. The game uses augmented reality technology to allow users capture cartoon Pokemon in their real-setting. While the hype seems to be dying down slightly, the Data Protection Office has published guidelines for games needing location data.
Despite the success of the game, many expressed concerns relating to the safety and privacy implications of a location-based game. Since it's release, Pokemon Go was the source of a few, serious controversies. These included armed criminals luring teenaged players to an isolated location where they were robbed. As this is a new use of the technology, there was bound to be a few teething issues. These were enhanced, however, after a European consumer watchdog highlighted that users must consent to very strict terms and conditions before downloading the game. These include waiving the right to courtroom representation as a plaintiff or class action member in favour of binding, individual arbitration. The only way to avoid this bind is to opt out within a month of the download.
Guidelines
The new guidelines, published by the Data Protection Office, includes a definition of location data and outlines the importance of understanding the importance of this information."Location data is any information which links an individual to a particular place including information about where a person currently is, or where they were at some point in the past. Technology such as smart phones has made it easier than ever before for individuals to be located. Organisations use this data to offer personalised services, such as navigation apps or location-specific news content on websites.
Aimed at both individuals and organisations, our guidance will assist individuals in understanding how information relating to their location is collected and processed, and provides clarity to organisations on their obligations regarding such data. The overriding principle of the guidance centres on the protection of the individual’s right to data privacy.
Publishing the guidance, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner advised users of smart phone apps, in particular, to familiarise themselves with the terms attaching to the downloading and use of apps and where location data is collected to be aware of the purposes for which it is being used. As the rate of technological innovation continues apace, more and more location data is being collected and transmitted and individuals should be vigilant of how this information is collected, processed and re-used."
