UK Gambling Commission beefs up advertising enforcement powers
CEO Neil McArthur says new rules enabling regulator to fine operators for any breach will protect consumers from “irresponsible advertising”
UK-facing operators face stricter enforcement action for advertising breaches under new rules from the Gambling Commission set to come into force in October, it was announced this morning.
The regulator today said the new powers, which come into force from 31 October, will widen the Commission’s scope to cover all breaches after it was previously only able to fine operators for misleading advertising.
The Commission also said operators would be required to introduce better complaints processes for customers who believe they have been treated unfairly, including an eight-week deadline for complaints to be resolved.
Neil McArthur, Gambling Commission CEO
“Protecting the interests of consumers is priority for us and needs to be a priority for gambling operators,” Neil McArthur, Gambling Commission chief executive, said.
“These changes will protect consumers from irresponsible advertising and misleading promotions, ensure that they can withdraw their money more easily, and will mean that firms have to deal with complaints more swiftly.”
Under the new rules, the Gambling Commission will be able to take action and impose fines on operators much quicker for breaking advertising rules, such as appealing to children.
The regulator also said operators will face action for advertising breaches by third-party affiliates, as well as for sending ‘spam’ marketing emails and texts.