Online Casino Connections: Do They Share Information & Data?

If you open an account with an online casino, it is natural to wonder how your information is managed. Many people are curious about whether sites exchange details with one another or if data is held separately. With many platforms available in the UK, understanding how information is handled is important.

This article looks at common questions around data sharing in online casinos, how the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) oversees the process, and why this matters if you choose to play. Read on to learn more. 

How Are Online Casinos Connected and Do They Share Information?

Online casinos in Britain operate in different ways, although many use the same technology providers. Game studios license their slots and tables to multiple operators, which is why the same title often appears across different brands. Even when the same software is used, the businesses remain separate.

Casinos licensed by the UKGC must follow UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Each site sets out in its privacy policy on how information is used. Marketing data cannot be shared with other companies unless you have provided clear consent.

Some operators may manage several brands under one corporate group or white label. In those cases, certain systems may be shared for tasks such as payments or account verification. This is different from transferring data to unrelated companies. Each brand remains responsible for meeting licensing conditions.

What Type of Player Data Do Online Casinos Hold?

When you create an account, you provide information such as your name, address, date of birth and contact details. These details are used to confirm identity and verify you are 18 or over.

UK casinos usually begin by running electronic checks to confirm your identity and address. If these checks cannot be completed successfully, the operator may then ask for documents such as a passport, driving licence, or a recent utility bill. In some cases, additional verification may also be needed — for example, when larger amounts are involved or when activity must be reviewed under anti-money laundering or financial risk rules. The process can vary between operators and depends on the circumstances.

Payment information is stored for deposits and withdrawals. This may include debit card details, bank account numbers or e-wallet references. Transaction records are linked to your account.

Operators also record usage data. This covers login activity, games played and time spent on the platform. These records help to provide the service, detect unusual activity and meet regulatory duties. Customer service contacts may also be stored for handling queries or complaints. Technical details such as IP address, browser and device type are also logged.

Are Casinos Allowed to Share Player Information With Each Other?

Casinos licensed in the UK must follow UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Information may only be shared where a lawful basis exists. Consent is required for direct marketing. For other purposes, operators may rely on grounds such as legal obligation or legitimate interests, provided safeguards are in place.

Casinos do not pass on personal data to other gambling businesses for general use. Any sharing across separate operators is restricted to specific cases with a clear basis. Examples include fraud prevention, crime detection or participation in national schemes such as GAMSTOP.

Work is also under way on projects such as the Single Customer View, sometimes referred to as GamProtect. This aims to allow operators to share certain details where there are concerns of gambling harm, under strict privacy and security rules. Operators must explain in their privacy policies if they take part in such schemes.

How Does the UK Gambling Commission Regulate Data Sharing?

The UKGC regulates operators in the UK and sets out expectations for how personal data is processed. UK GDPR requires operators to have a lawful reason for handling information, collect only what is needed, keep it secure and explain the process clearly.

Information may be shared with fraud prevention agencies, payment providers, regulators or services like GAMSTOP, where permitted by law. Operators must complete risk assessments, maintain security measures and report serious incidents. Failures can result in regulatory penalties.

Remote Technical Standards also require annual independent audits covering the security of critical systems, including those handling customer data. 

Do Online Casinos Share Information About Problem Gambling?

Operators must identify where gambling may be causing harm and respond appropriately. If you join GAMSTOP, the details you provide are matched against participating operators. This prevents accounts from being used or new ones created during the chosen exclusion period.

Minimal information may also be shared with specialist services or regulators where needed to meet legal requirements or protect wellbeing. This sharing is limited, and operators must use safeguards to protect privacy. Data about individual play is not shared between companies for general purposes without a proper legal reason.

Can Self-Exclusion Schemes Link Different Casino Sites?

Self-exclusion allows you to block access to online gambling for a set period. In Britain, GAMSTOP links most licensed sites so the exclusion applies across brands. When you register, your details are securely compared with operator records. If you try to log in or create an account while excluded, access is denied.

Operators must check the register regularly at account creation and login stages. The scheme relies on accurate information matching, so errors are possible, but operators are required to put processes in place to reduce the risk. Future regulation may develop these systems further as part of wider reforms on player protection.

Why Might Casinos Share Data With Third Parties?

Operators share data with third parties when required by law or to provide services. This includes verification providers for identity checks, banks and payment companies for financial transactions, and fraud prevention agencies. Data may also be shared with the UKGC or other regulators when legally required.

Where advertising or analytics partners are involved, operators must follow data protection law. Tracking tools such as pixels or cookies can only be used where there is a valid legal basis, often requiring clear consent. Operators must explain in their privacy and cookie policies what tools are in use and what information is collected.

Are All Online Casinos Part of the Same Network?

Casinos in the UK may appear similar but operate under separate licences or corporate groups. Some groups may run several brands under one licence, and some might use the same payment or software platforms. Despite these connections, each brand manages its own accounts, support and promotions.

Games often appear across different casinos because software developers license them to multiple operators. This does not involve personal data being transferred between those businesses. You can check which company operates a site and which licence applies by using the UKGC’s public register.

How Do Casinos Protect Player Privacy and Security?

Licensed casinos must apply technical and organisational measures to protect data. Encryption is widely used, so that information such as your address and payment details is transferred securely. Systems are protected with firewalls, monitoring and regular updates. Access is limited to trained staff with appropriate clearance.

Two-factor authentication is offered by many operators as an added safeguard. Payment systems are operated under strict standards to reduce risks of misuse. Data is only retained for as long as necessary, then deleted or anonymised in line with retention policies.

Operators are required to assess risks, carry out audits and notify the Information Commissioner’s Office if a data breach occurs that meets reporting thresholds. The UKGC can also take enforcement action where standards are not met. 

_{**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.}

_{*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.}