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The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has been putting its foot down in recent years, especially since the arrival of the now departing Sarah Harrison at the head of the commission, and their newest step is to ensure that online casinos implement fairer bonuses for their players, or risk disciplinary action if they don’t.Larger companies such as William Hill and Ladbrokes Coral have already committed to the changes and it is expected that all online casino operators will follow suit soon to avoid landing themselves in an actionable position.
What’s happening?
One of the biggest issues for casino players when it comes to bonuses has always been wagering requirements, i.e. the necessity to wager the bonus multiple times before being able to cash out their winnings.Some sites, such as PlayOJO, have already done away with wagering requirements, but these changes should see that become the norm across all operators.The UKGC has been working with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to ensure that bonuses are fairer for players, and that any terms and conditions that make players work to access their funds must be very clearly explained.Another change is that winning players will not have to be used in any publicity, meaning that those who pick up multi-million jackpots will be able to keep that to themselves if desired. Unfair obstacles.
Unfair Obstacles
CMA’s project director, George Lusty, spoke of the changes:“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 making it difficult for them to stop gambling when they want to”.Sarah Gardner, UKGC executive director, added:“[Gambling] firms must treat their customers fairly and not attach unreasonable terms and conditions to their promotions and offers.”