Data protection in focus: This is how the GDPR informs you correctly!

Data protection in focus: This is how the GDPR informs you correctly!

Data protection is becoming more and more important these days, and the topic is also finding its way into sports. On June 28, 2025 the time has come: the football season will be officially opened and Werder Bremen will meet the Italian team Udinese Calcio in a test match. However, the game is not just an event for football fans, but also offers a look at the club's current data protection situation. Radio Bremen reports that Werder Bremen uses tracking pixels to analyze surfing behavior anonymously. It is important to know that no conclusions can be drawn about individual people.

The options for consenting to data collection and transmission can directly influence users, as the option to display external content expires without renewed consent. This means: If fans want to access images or videos via platforms such as Facebook or YouTube, they must agree to one-time access. Without this consent, data processing will be requested again, ensuring that user privacy comes first.

Transparency is key

A fundamental principle in data protection is transparency, as set out in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Dr. Data protection explains that the principle of transparency allows data subjects to know exactly what data is being collected and what it is being used for. Within the framework of the GDPR, a distinction is also made between the direct and indirect collection of personal data.

With direct data collection, those responsible must inform immediately, while with indirect collection this must happen within one month. Clear information is crucial here: Who collects the data? For what purpose? And how long are these stored? These questions must not only be answered, but also made understandable and easily accessible in order to protect the rights of those affected.

The important role of information requirements

The GDPR therefore imposes extensive information obligations which includes both the identity of the person responsible and the contact details of the data protection officer. These obligations are not just formal requirements, but are essential for the self-determination of those affected and their ability to assert their usage rights. The information must be precise and understandable to ensure fair and transparent processing.

The information requirements are designed to promote self-determination and responsibility, but at the same time the risk of information overload is also addressed. When users are confronted with too much information, it can even impair their ability to make decisions. In this context, it becomes important that the quality and understandability of the information comes first in order to avoid GDPR violations, which can result in heavy fines. For example, up to 300,000 euros can be imposed on companies that ignore the principle of transparency.

Overall, data protection is also a focus in the world of sports. The requirements of the GDPR are not only reflected in media reporting, but also in the daily lives of fans. Anyone who uses digital offerings at Werder Bremen or elsewhere should be clear about their rights and options - because transparency not only protects data, but also the privacy of users.