The Rising Tide of Regulatory Actions in the Gambling Industry

The gambling scene’s landscape is changing rapidly, with greater scrutiny and regulatory pressure placing significant demands on operators in various jurisdictions. In a bid to uphold the integrity of the industry, regulators are making decisive moves, resulting in substantial consequences for those who fail to meet the required standards.

Recent Regulatory Actions in Germany and the UK

Recently, the German gambling regulator, Gemeinsamen Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), struck off Tipster from its list of approved operators. This sanction came into effect immediately, marking a pivotal moment in German gambling regulation.

The UK has witnessed similar regulatory developments, a notable example being In Touch Games. This operator had its license momentarily withheld and subsequently revoked due to continuous regulatory infractions and penalties. A clear message is being sent to operators: compliance is non-negotiable.

In Tipster’s case, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) deemed it necessary to revoke the authorisations, considering it the most suitable course of action. Besides notifying its players about the license cancellation, Tipster must also clear all lingering dues with the regulator.

Stricter Regulations Aimed at Better Protection of Players

Regulatory entities are aiming to increase player protection by introducing stricter rules and regulations. Some examples include the implementation of better identity verification processes, stricter responsible gambling measures, and more effective monitoring systems.

Regulatory Scrutiny Intensifies in Ireland

The regulatory radar has not spared Ireland, where the National Lottery Regulator recently held back €150,000 in payments to operator PLI due to license violations. This action was triggered by a mechanism that would eliminate closed accounts after two years, thereby allowing self-excluded users to resume gambling.

The breach involved 126 self-excluded accounts that were permanently banned. Rather than being deleted, these accounts should have been designated as ‘permanently closed’ to prevent their owners from creating new ones. Further problematic was the operator’s decision to send marketing emails to four of these blocked accounts.

The investigation revealed that, due to this misstep, 16 players were able to open new accounts. Moreover, 10 of them purchased tickets through their newly established accounts, spending a total of €3,292.

This incidence marked the first instance of payments being held back from an operator due to a breach of obligations. It underscores the mounting demands for accountability and transparency within the gambling industry, as regulatory bodies worldwide tighten their grip.