In spite of the fact that fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) situated in betting outlets across the UK would probably be most affected by the gambling crackdown planned by the Government, online gambling operators could be affected by new rules, too. Now, online gambling companies could also face close attention from the authorities, following a recommendation made by the major regulator of the UK gambling industry – the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
As Casino Guardian reported last week, the Commission published its review of both gambling machines in the UK and social responsibility measures, with certain recommendations being made.
Probably, one of the most-discussed recommendations made by the Commission, was the one concerning the maximum stake on fixed-odds betting machines. To be exact, the UKGC did not specify a certain figure, but more of a range, saying that according to the regulator, the maximum stake should amount to up to £30, which pretty much left the final decision to the recently-appointed Culture Secretary Matthew Hancock.
The latter is believed to back a maximum stake of £2 to be imposed on all content offered on FOBTs. Such a maximum stake has been sought by campaigners who sought to see high-stakes gaming in betting shops officially forbidden. However, changes in the land-based gaming sector of the UK could lead to certain changes in the digital one as well.
Social Responsibility Measures Also Get in UKGC Focus
As mentioned above, online gambling operators could see much attention from the regulatory authorities in the upcoming months. Considering the fact that there has been companies which were widely known for imposing unfair restrictions to their customers, including in terms of money withdrawals, the so-called “dormancy fees”, as well as of account closures.
Recently, some aspects of the existing regime have been criticised by both local regulators and anti-gambling campaigners. With its review being published, the key gambling regulatory body also made some recommendations to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in terms of improving the existing social responsibility measures in order to guarantee the customers’ safety.
The complete lack of staking limits when online gambling is concerned, is probably going to get much attention in the months to come, especially considering the fact that the UK Gambling Commission made a commentary that the remote sector should make sure that risks associated with online gambling were being managed thoroughly and efficiently. According to the Commission, in case that they fail to do so, imposing tighter control on stakes and prizes comparable to the ones imposed applied to land-based gambling products would be necessary.
Despite the fact that the UKGC has presented a comprehensive review of the possible measures to be imposed on the local gambling sector, account restrictions and closures were not mentioned. The issue remained outside the review’s scope, but the industry would probably have to make some changes in order to make sure customers are well-protected and provided with safe and secure environment to place their bets in.
- Author
Olivia Cole
