Malta Gaming Authority reveals H1 2020 enforcement stats
Regulator cancels seven licences in H1 2020 and issues fines against nine operators
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) cancelled licences belonging to seven operators during the first half of 2020 after the regulator strengthened its enforcement and regulatory regime.
Releasing its interim performance report for H1, the MGA confirmed the suspension of a further two licences, with warnings issued to 11 operators following compliance reviews, audits and formal investigations.
Nine administrative fines were also meted out to MGA-licensed operators over identified breaches.
The MGA’s Fit & Proper Committee delivered five policy-based refusals to individuals and companies seeking an MGA licence on the grounds that they were not fit and proper in regards to mitigating AML risks.
Regulators within the Commercial Communication Committee acted against 10 adverts and promotions for inappropriately exploiting the pandemic during H1.
During the period, a total of 833 criminal probity screening tests were carried out, covering both land-based and remote gaming activities.
MGA officials received 40 international co-operation requests from other regulators sending 25 requests of their own during the first half of the year.
Finally, the MGA’s player support unit received a total of 2,431 requests for assistance in resolving 2,433 queries.
The regulator reported a 38% year-on-year increase in player support queries, citing the effect of the pandemic on players.