In a significant move to curb the addictive elements of online gambling, regulatory authorities are set to enforce a series of measures aimed at protecting consumers. This initiative will ban practices that create an artificial illusion of control among gamblers, addressing a critical aspect of gambling addiction.
The Gambling Commission has announced a crackdown on features within online betting platforms that contribute to addiction. Following extensive consultations, the Commission will prohibit elements designed to speed up play or enable multiple games to be played simultaneously. Additionally, celebratory sounds and visuals for returns that are less than or equal to the initial stake will be banned, aiming to prevent gamblers from getting false reinforcement.
These new restrictions will come into effect on January 17. Alongside these measures, enhanced financial checks will be implemented by the end of August. Initially, gambling firms will be required to identify if a gambler who has lost over £500 in a 30-day period has a history of bankruptcy or unpaid debts. From February 28, this threshold will be reduced to £150, tightening the net on potential financial risks.
A pilot scheme will be introduced to prevent cases where online gamblers spend large amounts in short periods without any checks. This will involve data sharing with credit reference agencies to ensure that high-risk gamblers are identified and monitored effectively. This measure is expected to curb reckless gambling behavior by providing real-time data on a gambler’s financial status.
To prevent children from being drawn into gambling, a loophole that allowed access to certain gambling premises without age verification will be closed. By the end of August, staff in all gambling establishments will be required to adhere to a ‘Think 25’ policy, rigorously checking the age of all customers who appear under 25. This step is crucial in shielding the younger population from the dangers of gambling.
Carolyn Harris MP, Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Gambling Related Harm, has expressed support for these measures. However, she urges further action on gambling sponsorship and marketing, highlighting that more robust steps are necessary to tackle the root causes of gambling addiction comprehensively.
Last month, the charity GambleAware emphasized the need for betting advertisements to carry more explicit warnings about the addictive nature of gambling. The current industry-led slogan ‘Take Time To Think’ has been criticized for its lack of impact. GambleAware advocates for a more compelling message that clearly communicates the potential harms of gambling.
The urgency of these measures is underscored by statistics from the National Gambling Helpline, which reported a surge of over 10,000 individuals seeking help for gambling addiction last year. This alarming rise indicates a growing public health concern that requires immediate and sustained intervention.
