Online gamblers who lose £500 or more a month may soon face extra checks in an effort to prevent problem gambling, according to the United Kingdom’s Gambling Commission.
The commission has proposed new rules that would require online gambling operators to carry out enhanced affordability checks on customers who exhibit signs of being at risk of harmful gambling behaviour. This would include customers who lose £500 or more in a single month.
The proposal comes as the commission seeks to address concerns about the level of harm being caused by online gambling, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, when many people turned to online gambling as a form of entertainment while in lockdown.
According to the commission, research has shown that around 1.4% of online gamblers in the UK are considered “problem gamblers,” with a further 2.7% at risk of developing a gambling problem. The commission estimates that around 14% of online gamblers lose £500 or more per month.
The new rules would require gambling operators to carry out checks to verify customers’ source of funds and ensure they can afford to gamble without facing financial difficulties. Operators would also be required to monitor customers for signs of harm and intervene where necessary.
Neil McArthur, chief executive of the Gambling Commission, said: “These new rules are part of a broader package of measures aimed at making gambling safer and reducing the risk of harm. We are determined to protect consumers from harm and these new rules will help operators to better identify and intervene with customers who may be at risk of harmful gambling behaviour.”
The proposal has been welcomed by some gambling addiction charities, who believe that tighter regulations are needed to protect vulnerable individuals from the harms of gambling.
However, some critics have raised concerns about the impact the new rules may have on responsible gamblers, arguing that they could lead to greater restrictions on the freedom of choice.
The proposal is currently open for consultation and the Gambling Commission is seeking feedback from industry stakeholders and the public before making a final decision on the new rules. If approved, the rules are expected to come into force in 2021.
