The European Commission has released non-binding recommendations for better regulating internet gambling in the Common Market.
Protection for players and minors is central to the proposals, which are meant to guide the future development of regulations among EU Member States and set out minimum standards for websites in terms of socially responsible advertising and sponsorships and consumer warnings about the risks.
It’s suggested that operators establish processes for opening player accounts that ensure details of age and identity can be verified and player behavior tracked to identify and prevent problem gambling.
Self-exclusion should be made easily available, and it’s recommended that Member States train employees who interact with customers to understand problem gambling and liaise appropriately with players, who also should have access to help lines they can call for assistance.
Finally, it’s recommended that independent regulatory authorities be established to ensure compliance.
Maarten Haijer, head of the European Gaming and Betting Association, a trade group, said an EU-wide policy for online gambling is “evidently necessary” and welcomed the proposals, saying, “European consumers deserve to be equally well protected throughout the EU, wherever they reside.”
The commission has asked Member States to report back in 18 months on steps they’ve taken to adopt the recommendations.
