UKGC warns operators over “irresponsible behaviour” during Covid-19 shutdown
Neil McArthur instructs licensees to be cautious with cross-sell behaviour following increase in online casino play
The Gambling Commission (UKGC) will not tolerate “irresponsible behaviour” from operators during the Covid-19 lockdown and will not hesitate to intervene if social responsibility standards start to slip, according to CEO Neil McArthur.
In an email sent to all licensees, McArthur acknowledged the “uncertain and unsettling” events affecting UK operators right now, having spoken to stakeholders across the industry.
“Protecting children and vulnerable people from being harmed by gambling has always been a major priority and we are very mindful – as you should be – of the fact that the risks of harm arising from online gambling have increased as a result of recent events,” McArthur said.
However, McArthur issued a stark warning to operators, adding: “If we see irresponsible behaviour, we will step in immediately. So, while I know that the current climate is unprecedented, gambling operators must play their part in making sure people are kept safe.”
The UKGC has warned operators that consumer protection should be of paramount importance for licensed activities and that operators should be mindful of the effect the Covid-19 lockdown will have on online players.
In addition, the UKGC said operators should not exploit the current situation for marketing purposes and be “very cautious” about cross-selling online casino to players with betting accounts.
It further warned licensees to ensure customers are onboarded in a socially responsible way and that affiliates are “conducting themselves appropriately” during the lockdown.
McArthur’s comments come after European regulators reported Covid-19-themed marketing being used in an unethical way by affiliate firms.
McArthur revealed the UKGC is currently drawing up an impact assessment of how the lockdown is affecting the industry, with the aim of providing a roadmap on the UKGC’s approach to compliance during the crisis.
The UKGC acknowledged an increase in online casino, poker, slots and virtual sports as a result of the shutdown of UK and worldwide sports.