The original report claimed betting companies were given access to an educational database containing "names, ages and addresses of 28 million children and students," in "one of the biggest breaches of government data."
The article suggests the breach stemmed from a "third-party data company providing unauthorised access," leading to attempts to "increase the proportion of young people who gamble online."
In response however, a 32Red spokesperson said in a statement sent to Gambling Insider: "The report in the Sunday Times stating 32Red, among other betting companies, has access to the Learning Records Service database is untrue and unfounded.
"As a responsible betting operator we have zero tolerance on under-age gambling. We are legally required to verify a number of criteria, including the age of people who wish to enjoy our services to ensure they are over the age of 18.
"The only information 32Red has access to is confirmation or rejection the person requesting to open an account with us is over the age of 18, and not specific details about that person.
"While we understand there is heightened scrutiny on the gambling sector at present, it is vital reporting remains accurate and based on evidence and facts."
The operator went on to state 83% of all 32Red’s new players in 2019 were over 25, while it has reduced the volume of its 18-24 customers by 15% since 2018.
The Betting and Gaming Council also provided a similar statement, denying any truth in the original report.
The Council said: "Media reports that betting companies have access to the Learning Records Service database are untrue.
"All betting companies are legally required to verify the age of people who wish to join to ensure they are over the age of 18; the only information GB Group provides is confirmation or rejection the applicant is over the age of 18."
Gambling Insider contacted Betfair for comment, as the operator was named in the Sunday Times article alongside 32Red, and the operator responded with the following comment:
"The claims made in the Sunday Times that Betfair has used GB Group's data to target under-age customers are completely untrue.
"In fact, the reverse is true; we use the company solely for age and identity verification services to ensure no customer can open an account without confirming they are 18."
