In a bid to tackle problem gambling, the UK Gambling Commission has proposed a new measure that would see British gamblers who lose £500 or more a month subjected to additional checks.
The proposal comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to combat the negative effects of gambling, which have been on the rise in recent years. According to the latest figures from the commission, nearly 2 million people in the UK are considered to be at risk of developing a gambling problem.
Under the new measure, online gambling operators would be required to conduct extra checks on customers who show signs of excessive gambling. This could include asking for additional verification documents, such as bank statements or proof of income, to ensure that customers are not spending more money than they can afford to lose.
The commission has emphasized that the measure is not meant to punish responsible gamblers, but rather to protect vulnerable individuals who may be at risk of developing a gambling addiction. The proposed checks would only apply to customers who are consistently losing £500 or more a month, and operators would be required to take steps to intervene and offer support to those customers who show signs of problem gambling.
The proposal has received mixed reactions from industry experts and gambling advocates. Some have praised the commission for taking proactive measures to address problem gambling, while others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on responsible gamblers who may be unfairly targeted.
In response to the proposal, a spokesperson for the commission stated, “We are committed to ensuring that gambling is conducted in a safe and responsible manner, and these additional checks are a crucial step towards achieving that goal. We will continue to work closely with operators to implement these measures in a way that prioritizes the well-being of customers.”
It remains to be seen how the new measure will be implemented and what impact it will have on the gambling industry in the UK. However, it is clear that the commission is taking proactive steps to address the growing issue of problem gambling and ensure that consumers are protected from harm. Overall, it is hoped that these measures will help to create a safer and more responsible gambling environment for all.
