Game Rant, known for its gaming and entertainment coverage, has recently introduced a feature that nudges readers to create an account after reading two articles. While readers are presented with the option to continue browsing without registering, this “continue without account” button is reportedly broken, effectively forcing users into creating accounts. This tactic, whether intentional or a technical oversight, may be treading on shaky ground, particularly under EU privacy regulations.
A Choice That Isn’t a Choice
Game Rant’s approach seems simple: after two articles, a pop-up asks readers to either make an account or continue without one. However, with the “continue” button consistently failing to work, the forced registration strategy appears contrary to GDPR guidelines on user consent. EU law requires that websites processing personal data have a clear, transparent purpose for doing so, particularly when users are given no real choice in the matter.
Data Collection with No Justification
In the EU, the GDPR mandates that data collection should serve a valid purpose, especially for non-commercial sites like news outlets. Game Rant, primarily a news platform, has no obvious need to collect personal information from users who simply want to read its articles. By preventing readers from accessing content without registration, Game Rant’s policy may lack the valid, transparent justification required by EU law.
Broken Button or Clever Design?
For EU users, the constant malfunction of the “continue without account” button feels suspect. It raises concerns over whether the “broken button” issue is an intentional design choice, encouraging forced registration without direct accountability. The approach might be a way for Game Rant to avoid openly requiring accounts while, in practice, achieving that exact outcome—a tactic that could be seen as circumventing GDPR rules.
The Consequences of Non-Compliance
Under the GDPR, organizations are expected to uphold principles like “data minimization” and “privacy by design,” requiring that only essential data be collected and that users are given genuine choices about their personal information. Game Rant’s policy risks crossing a line by indirectly limiting access without legitimate consent. Fines and other penalties for GDPR violations are serious, and Game Rant’s approach may invite scrutiny from EU regulators if deemed non-compliant.
Final Thoughts
In today’s digital landscape, trust and transparency are paramount, especially for a platform like Game Rant that relies on a loyal audience. Whether the “broken button” issue is a technical glitch or a calculated design flaw, it undermines user choice and potentially runs afoul of GDPR laws. Until Game Rant addresses this issue and clarifies its data collection practices, the platform risks losing the trust of its EU audience—and possibly facing consequences for its non-transparent approach and to be fair, news should always be free.
Note: This article highlights potential privacy concerns and legal implications under EU law. Users concerned about data privacy are encouraged to consult resources on GDPR compliance or reach out to their local data protection authority.
