Could Mandatory Affordability Checks be in the Pipeline for UK Gamblers?

In an effort to protect vulnerable individuals from excessive gambling losses, UK bettors could soon be subjected to credit assessments carried out by local bookmakers. These checks, designed to verify if a customer can afford to place larger bets are expected to be part of legislative changes announced towards the end of the month.

The introduction of stricter affordability checks follows the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) issuing a record £19.2 million fine to William Hill. William Hill Customers were able to place large bets without the regulator’s recommended affordability checks being carried out.

Government Urged to Increase Gambling Restrictions

Anti-gambling campaigners have called on the government to implement tighter restrictions on gambling advertising and sponsorship deals. However, industry insiders feel more aggressive lobbying efforts may lead to the dilution of more stringent measures. While there are indications that affordability checks will be part of the UK government’s gambling reform, further details are yet to be disclosed.

Reports suggest automated background assessments are to be implemented for customers spending moderate amounts. These affordability checks are primarily to seek more information on a customer by using various indicators of financial vulnerability. If any risks are flagged, gambling operators will be expected to take appropriate action.

Gambling companies may soon be required to conduct more comprehensive affordability assessments for players placing larger bets. This would include conducting additional risk factors to ensure individuals do have disposable funds to gamble larger sums.

Driving Gamblers to Unregulated Gambling Sites

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), a trade body representing the UK’s legal gambling sector, has expressed concern that the implementation of further restrictions, including proposed affordability checks, may be seen as overly intrusive by some players.

The BGC argues such measures could potentially drive problem gamblers away from licensed online gambling platforms towards unregulated sites that operate without the necessary licensing and tax contributions, leading to the possibility of financial stress.

Potential Industry-wide Data Sharing Agreement

To counteract the risk of problem gamblers migrating to unlicensed online gambling platforms, reports indicate that an industry-wide data-sharing agreement may be introduced. This would provide the regulated gambling sector with information about players’ activities across all betting operators without compromising the data privacy rights of local gamblers.

In a bid to counteract problem gamblers migrating to unlicensed, unregulated black market gambling sites, reports suggest an industry-wide, data-sharing initiative could be introduced. All licensed operators would have access to their customer’s activities, including the use of black market operators without compromising their customer data protection rights.