How gambling companies keep you safe while betting online
Gambling Commission issues advice to consumers on how gambling companies should keep you safe while betting online.
In light of the Covid-19 outbreak and the government’s requirement to stay at home, more people will be engaging with online gambling websites. We have already issued new advice to all licensed gambling companies and outlined our ongoing expectations on them to keep consumers safe.
We want to do all we can to reduce the risk of gambling harm in this unprecedented time. The following guidance outlines the protections that are in place for consumers.
Guidance
Online gambling sites have facilities built into them that allow consumers to set a limit and control the time and money they are spending on that site.
We have partnered with Twitter to create guidance aimed at users who want to limit the amount of gambling-related content they see on the social media platform. The guidance explains the different ways in which Twitter’s safety tools and settings can be adjusted within an individual account, to help limit the risk of exposure to gambling-related messaging and advertisements.
If you think you're spending too much time gambling, or want help to stop gambling, you can ask to be self-excluded. This is when you ask a gambling operator to stop you from gambling for a period of time and is available to anyone who wishes to stop gambling. An online multi-operator self-exclusion scheme, known as GAMSTOP, has been available since April 2018. To find out more and to register, visit the GAMSTOP website (opens in a new tab).
Online gambling companies have to be licensed by us to provide gambling to British consumers. In the current circumstances we know there is an increased risk of illegal overseas websites trying to seek British customers. These sites may not have any of the protections that we require. We will be tracking and taking action against such sites where we identify them. To check whether a site is licensed, look for the link to our public register where you can see what type of activities the site is allowed to offer. You can also check whether we have taken any action against them.
Gambling businesses must make their terms and conditions available to you. It is important to read the terms and conditions before you make a decision on which businesses you wish to gamble with and what the risks of gambling are. Read more about what information gambling businesses must give you.
Gambling websites must give you access to historic account activity. This means you can request for them to show you exactly when, how much, and what you’ve been gambling on. This information may help you understand whether you are spending too much time or money on gambling.
Although many of us are having to limit contact with others, when it comes to support and advice about your gambling habits, you are not alone. The National Gambling Helpline provides confidential information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling problems in England, Scotland and Wales. For more information visit the GamCare website (opens in a new tab).
Public Health England has issued guidance, advice and tips on how to maintain your mental wellbeing if you need to stay at home (opens in a new tab).
We will continue to monitor the impacts of Covid-19 on gambling. We will be looking carefully at gambling operators’ activities and any new risks to consumers and will continue to take action where needed to protect people from harm.
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Last updated: 29 September 2020
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