Ubisoft is under fire yet again after being reported by European privacy organization NOYB (None Of Your Business) for allegedly violating user data protection laws. The case revolves around claims that Ubisoft collects sensitive player data and forces an internet connection even for single-player games like Far Cry Primal.
The complaint began when a Far Cry fan questioned the type of data Ubisoft collects during gameplay. After a deeper investigation, NOYB discovered that within just 10 minutes of play, the game connected to external servers 150 times—a practice they call “stealth data collection.” NOYB asserts that this kind of frequent connection raises serious privacy concerns about what data is truly being collected behind the scenes.
Forced Online Play in Single-Player Games Raises Red Flags
Another major issue is Ubisoft’s policy that forces players to be online even in single-player modes. While Ubisoft claims the constant connection is necessary to verify game ownership, NOYB argues that verification through platforms like Steam should already be sufficient.
Even Ubisoft’s so-called “Offline Mode” still demands an initial internet connection—making the option effectively useless without first going online. NOYB stresses that this requirement burdens players unnecessarily and infringes on consumer rights.
Potential Financial Penalties and Industry Impact
If proven guilty, Ubisoft could face fines of up to €92 million, equivalent to around four percent of their last year’s global revenue (€2.3 billion). Such a penalty would not only hurt Ubisoft financially but also send a strong warning to other game developers about respecting user data rights.
As of now, Ubisoft has not issued an official response to Eurogamer’s inquiries regarding the lawsuit.
What This Means for Players and the Gaming Industry
Gamers should pay close attention to this case. It could set a precedent for how companies must handle player data and online requirements in the future. If you are concerned about how your gaming data is collected, here are a few steps you can take:
- Review privacy policies before accepting them.
- Use VPNs to limit data exposure.
- Choose platforms and publishers that prioritize transparency.
- Support organizations like NOYB that advocate for digital rights.
This case shines a harsh spotlight on what has become a troubling industry trend. Players deserve games that respect both their time and their privacy!
