15.022018

New Rules for Gambling Adverts

Gambling companies are to face stickier new advertising policies – including a total ban on enticing gamblers to “wager now”, the advertising committee has stated.

The Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) said the latest rules, which will control gambling ads during live occurrences, aim to guard ‘vulnerable’ gamblers. CAP, which generates adverts rules, added the new rules will also target vague offers for free stakes.  

ElectraWorks Fined $350,000 for Deceptive Ads

It comes as a betting company ElectraWorks was fined a total of $350,000 for deceptive adverts. GVA, which owns and operates ElectaWorks and other brands such as Foxy Bingo, stated the ads have been withdrawn and its’ offers now complies with the new rules. Announcing the changes, CPA stated it will curb all ads that irresponsibly imply “risk-free” deposits or encourage repetitive play.

The new regulations, which will be adopted by Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) in its rulings on grievances, will also ban ads that play on gamblers’ self-esteem or financial concerns. The updated rules will come into effect on 2nd April; however, the restrictions on free wages apply immediately.

Ever Rising Free Bets Complaints

CPA noted the majority of grievances over betting ads relate to gamblers being forced to deposit before they can withdraw their winnings or access their free wagers. It stated all bonus and free bet must now disclose the terms and conditions clearly. Any cashback offer must also be disbursed in cash, not bonuses.

The director of CAP, Shahriar Coupal, warned, “We will not tolerate betting adverts that exploit players’ vulnerabilities or play hasty and loose with enticing bonus and free bet offers.” The new rules take into consideration the best available proof to strengthen the safeties already in place, to ensure that betting is presented in a responsible manner to minimize any harm.