The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) have welcomed plans by Facebook to allow users to opt out of gambling advertisements across its social media platform.The move further enhances the ‘Industry Code of Responsibility’ which came into force last year. The code covers strict advertising guidelines including, social media advertisements must not be targeted at under 25s, and at least 20% or more of their gambling ads are related to safe gambling messages.
Efforts are Paying Off
Continuous monitoring by the Advertising Standards Association (ASA) concluded, the efforts conducted throughout the industry had marked a notable improvement in minimising under-aged people from being exposed to gambling adverts.The new measures Facebook are to initiate will ensure social media platform users are aware of opt-out options regarding gambling advertisements and these options are fully recognised and understood.
Urging all Platforms to Take up the Initiative
Michael Dugher chief executive of the BGC said, “I welcome this move by Facebook, and I would urge all social media and search platforms to provide the ability for users to opt-out of viewing betting adverts.“The regulated betting and gaming industry is determined to promote safer gambling, unlike the unsafe and growing online black market, which has none of the safeguards which are commonplace among BGC members.”