Introduction to New UKGC Rules
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has introduced new rules for gambling companies to help esports bettors and other gamblers manage their spending. These rules aim to promote responsible gambling and reduce the risk of problem gambling. As part of the new rules, gambling companies will be required to prompt their customers to set a financial limit before they make their first deposit.
Key Requirements for Gambling Companies
The new rules set by the UKGC require gambling companies to:
- Prompt customers to set a financial limit before making their first deposit and make it easy for them to review and alter their limit
- Remind consumers every six months to review their account and transaction information to help maintain control of their spending
- Offer financial limits using free text at an account level to help customers set meaningful limits
- Provide financial limit setting facilities via a link on the homepage and deposit pages, which are clearly visible and accessible
- Action all customer requests to decrease a financial limit immediately
Implementation of New Rules
These changes will come into force at the end of the month, and the Commission stated that all online operators must provide customers with the opportunity to set a deposit limit based solely on the amount a customer pays into their account over a set duration. Helen Rhodes, Commission Director of Major Policy Projects, said that these changes will help empower consumers to have greater awareness and control over their gambling.
Deposit Limits in Europe
The latest rules in the UK will continue to allow gamblers to set their own limits, but other countries in Europe are introducing strict limits to curb player losses. In Germany, deposits at online casinos are limited to €1,000 per player across all platforms, and there is also a €1 stake limit on online slots. Similarly, the UK introduced a limit on slots of £5 for over-25s and £2 for 18- to 24-year-olds earlier this year.
US States and Deposit Limits
In the US, many states where online casinos are legal have similar rules that require platforms to give users the opportunity to set limits. New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Michigan all dictate that companies allow users to set limits and self-exclude. Like the UK, there is no restriction on what limit a user can set. To comply with responsible gambling regulations, operators have also introduced a range of tools for bettors, including setting limits.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
Some companies are taking proactive steps to promote responsible gambling. Underdog partnered with Sportradar last month to utilize the company’s AI tools, which monitor players’ gambling behavior. If users show signs of problem gambling, it recommends care services for addiction treatment. Meanwhile, lawmakers in New York recently introduced a bill that will prohibit companies from limiting customers, except in cases of suspicious wagering activity or indications of a gambling disorder.
Conclusion
The new rules introduced by the UKGC aim to promote responsible gambling and reduce the risk of problem gambling. By requiring gambling companies to prompt customers to set financial limits and providing tools to help manage spending, the UKGC is taking a proactive approach to protecting consumers. As other countries in Europe and the US introduce similar rules and initiatives, it is clear that responsible gambling is becoming a priority in the gaming industry. By setting limits and promoting responsible gambling practices, gamers can enjoy their favorite games while minimizing the risks associated with problem gambling.
