The ABC has moved to assure Australians a plan to introduce a compulsory login system on the iview streaming platform will not put user data at risk.
The government broadcaster has released a new draft Privacy Impact Assessment on its website outlining the proposal and processes it intends to implement to keep user data safe.
The login system enables iview users’ access to additional features including the option to resume watching previous programs on a variety of devices, and the ability to create personal watchlists and user profiles for individual household members.
The ABC had originally intended to introduce compulsory login in July last year but was forced to delay its plans after concerns were raised personal information could be shared with third-party tech platforms, Google and Facebook, unless users expressly request the ABC keep their personal data private.
The data shared with Google and Facebook will be used to create targeted advertising that will appear across the web to promote iview content.
The ABC is yet to confirm a new date for the introduction of compulsory logins on the iview platform with a spokesperson telling TV Blackbox the process remains “still in the consultation phase” and that a new date will be announced “in due course.”
Under the original proposal, users would have been requested to submit their First Name, Email Address, Year of Birth, Postcode and Gender before being allowed to watch video content.
Users will have the option of using a pseudonym instead of submitting their first name and can also select “prefer not to say” for the gender option. Users will also have the option of creating a “sub-account” for young viewers.
Under the proposal, users will not need to login to watch a live stream of ABC TV channels,
The ABC has defended the proposal by stating introducing Login to Watch means ABC iview can do what the other streaming services and commercial and public broadcasters are already doing and provide the personalised services viewers expect.
In a media statement released on Sunday, the broadcaster indicated failing to keep pace with user expectations could lead to a danger that our Australian stories get lost in the mix, or don’t get told at all.
In 2021 ABC iview was Australia’s No 1 broadcaster VOD streaming service with more than 4500 hours of television shows, live performances, and films to enjoy for free – and ad free.
There are currently almost 6 million ABC accounts delivering the benefits of personalised ABC iview services. Since 10 May 2021 the ABC has received just 514 complaints or queries about the introduction of ABC Login to Watch.
The ABC is bound by the Privacy Act and the Australian Privacy Principles and has spent the past year working with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner to ensure greater privacy protections than any other streaming service in this country.
