Gambling Commission announces advertising rule changes

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

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

“Protecting the interests of consumers is a priority for us and needs to be a priority for gambling operators,” Gambling Commission Chief Executive Neil McArthur said.

The Gambling Commission has vowed to tighten its regulation surrounding the following:

• 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 glamourises gambling)
• firms 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)
• 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.

McArthur said the changes were aimed at protecting consumers from irresponsible practices.

“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,” he said.