The UK’s Competition and Market Authority (CMA) demanded gambling firms to stop running “unfair online promotions that trap players’ money”. Following an investigation that the CMA carried out to see to it that the sector was not violating consumer protection law and that players are viable to withdraw their own money when they play as part of a bonus promotion.
In a scrutiny carried out in collaboration with the Gambling Commission, the CMA found certain terms in online promotions were unlikely to be ‘fair’ and had the potential to deceive customers. A concern also was raised whether the people would be forced to play for longer than they wanted before being able to withdraw their money.
Consequently, Ladbrokes, William Hill, and PT Entertainment have formally committed to change the way they offer bonus promotions to ensure players can always access and release their own money. The operators have also agreed to be more upfront and clear in the terms and conditions of their bonus promotions.
This implies players will not be required to play numerous times before they can withdraw their money, while firms must ensure restrictions on gameplay are made clear to players, as well as not oblige players to take part in publicity. The Gambling Commission has moved on determined to build on the initial uptake of the three operators by stating that all firms across the sector must now adopt similar changes to be spared from facing regulatory actions.
George Lusty, the Project Director at the CMA, said: “Gambling always carries a risk, but players should never face unfair restrictions that prevent them from getting at their money. Firms mustn’t stack the odds against players, by putting unfair obstacles in their way, or make it difficult for them to stop gambling when they want to.”
Sarah Gardner, the Executive Director of the Gambling Commission, added: “We expect all Gambling Commission licensed businesses to immediately review the promotions and sign up deals they offer customers and take whatever steps they need to take, to the same timescales agreed by the three operators, to ensure they comply. Operators should be very aware that we will continue to work closely with the CMA to ensure customers are getting a fair deal across the gambling industry.”
Source: European Gaming News…
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