What kind of Data does SKY collect on viewing habits?

Question

Hi, what kind of data does SKY collect on viewing habits. Are they transmitted over phone line which is mandatory for first 12 months or over air?

Answer 1

yes, the data is collected via a callback from the box using the phone line, this happens usually once a month during the first 12 months of a contract and is part of an agreement between Sky and the BIB (British Interactive Broadcasting) and as a result of this agreement Sky gives their new subscribers subsidised equipment (sky receiver). the data they collect is mainly the channels watched most (data stored on memory chip EEPROM), and it also lets sky know where the receiver is (phone line). nothing is transmitted back to sky over air, the satellite system is for receiving only, any transmission from the sky box will be if its connected to an active phone line.

Answer 2

they do collect what you watch and target you with things they think you will like based on that info...  I just pulled the phone plug out of the back.  I can't use some of the interactive services, but everything else works and stops them snooping...

Answer 3

No data on viewing habits should be collected. The phone line is for card updates and also firmware updates to your box.