August 6, 2018

New rules from the Gambling Commission, which come into force from 31 October 2018, mean gambling companies that break advertising rules or breach consumer law will face tougher action.

The Commission says that the new requirements, which follow an open consultation, provide “stronger protection for consumers and ensure they are treated fairly by gambling businesses”.

The changes mean:

• it will be easier to take action, including imposing fines, against gambling businesses that break the advertising rules (such as advertising that appeals particularly to children or glamorises gambling);
• operators will face action for advertising failings by third party affiliates;
• it will be quicker and easier to take action for breaches of consumer law (such as unfair and misleading practices or unreasonable restrictions on withdrawals);
• operators will have to provide better complaints processes, including an eight week deadline for complaints to be resolved; and
• action can be taken against gambling operators that send spam marketing emails or texts.

The new requirements come into effect on 31 October 2018. To read the Commission’s press release in full and for a link to the new requirements, click here.