The UK Gambling Commission has introduced new rules that will make it easier to penalize companies that violate the UK’s gambling advertising rules and allows for harsher sanctions against gambling companies.
The rules, which will go into effect in October, provide stronger protection for consumers and ensure they are treated fairly by gambling businesses, the commission said in a press release.
At present the Gambling Commission can only fine operators for misleading advertising, but under the new rules the commission will be able to act more easily and swiftly against firms who break any advertising rules, such as advertising that appeals to children or glamorizes gambling. That includes imposing fines.
Other changes, according to the release include:
- Firms will face action for advertising failings by third party affiliates
- Quicker and easier procedures to take action for breaches of consumer law (such as unfair and misleading practices or unreasonable restrictions on withdrawals)
- Firms will have to provide better complaints processes, including an eight-week deadline for complaints to be resolved
- Action can be taken against gambling firms that send spam marketing emails or texts.
“Protecting the interests of consumers is a priority for us and needs to be a priority for gambling operators,” said Neil McArthur, chief executive of the commission in the release. “These changes will protect consumers from irresponsible advertising and misleading promotions, ensure that they can withdraw their money more easily, and will mean that firms have to deal with complaints more swiftly.”
The changes come after the conclusion of a public input phase.
