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Online gambling: what to look out for video transcript

Online gambling: what to look out for

Gambling sites can be used to play games and lay bets.

Many sites offer bonus money to play with.

For example, put down £10 and get £50 to play with.

It's possible to win money on these promotions, but there are some things to look out for.

Thanks to action by the Competition Markets Authority (CMA) and the Gambling Commission, sites must be clear upfront about any significant conditions that apply.

For example:

  • minimum deposit £10
  • maximum bonus £100
  • stakes must not exceed £10
  • you must be over 18
  • full terms and conditions.

Sites must also make it clear whether you are playing with your own money or bonus money added by the site.

For example, a statement such as: you are now using bonus funds from us. Once you use up these and any winnings from them, you’ll be playing with your own money.

Sites must let you take out your unspent cash.

For example, they shouldn’t use a statement such as: you must wager 20 times before you can withdraw this money. Instead, you should be able to withdraw your money whenever you want.

Sites must let you take out your winnings if you’re gambling with your own money.

Sites must be clear about restrictions on using bonuses.

If you’re lucky enough to win, they can’t make you take part in publicity.

You can find more information about online gambling on GOV.UK (opens in new tab).

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