Neil McArthur, chief executive of the UK Gambling Commission, has emphasized the need for standards to be raised among overseas gambling businesses targeting British consumers. Speaking at the ARQ Gaming Compliance Forum in Malta last month, McArthur highlighted three key strategic focus areas:
- Techniques the industry will use when designing apps and online games
- The risks associated with each product and how they can be mitigated
- Clear guidance on unacceptable industry practices
“As a result, we recently received an offer from one major operator to lead the development of a code of conduct in this area,” McArthur said. “We want to take up that offer and hope to see firm commitments in this area soon, including a timetable for that work.”
Advertising technology is the final core area explored by McArthur, who spoke of a surge as evidenced in an interim report based on GambleAware research on advertising and its effects.
“While I am not suggesting that children, young people or vulnerable adults are being actively targeted, the research found very little evidence of ad tech being used to proactively target ads away from them either. I want you to explore how you can make better use of technology to minimize the risk of exposure of gambling advertising content.”
McArthur concluded by stating that the Commission needs to see tangible progress on issues outlined: “I hope all of you will engage with the opportunities to collaborate that I have just outlined.
