written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
02 Sep 2022
Journalist, Editorial Department
The introduction of new regulations in the UK that would prohibit operators from engaging with consumers at risk of gambling-related harm has been postponed until next year, a regulator representative announced on September 2.
According to the UK Gambling Commission, some rules related to the Social Responsibility Code will still come into effect on September 12. However, the most significant changes will not be implemented until at least February 2024. This decision follows requests from industry representatives for an extension due to technical issues.
Under the new regulations, operators will now have more time to take timely action when identifying vulnerability indicators outlined in the Commission's guidance. The requirement to prevent marketing activities, including bonus offers targeting at-risk populations, will not yet be enforceable.
Additionally, the guidance on customer interaction for online operators, published in June 2022, will be reviewed, with extensive consultations planned on this matter.
The requirements set to take effect in September include monitoring a specific set of indicators to identify gambling harm and implementing automated processes for those exhibiting problematic behavior.
The Gambling Commission stated: "After careful consideration, we have decided that most of the new rules will come into effect as planned on September 12. Online operators are already engaging effectively with customers, and the new requirements reflect the steps we believe are necessary to fulfill this responsibility."
Consultations are expected to begin at the end of September and will last for six weeks. The Commission noted that all opinions expressed during the discussions will be taken into account before a decision is made regarding compliance with the new guidelines.
In related news, Stakelogic is integrating its games onto the Soft2Bet platform.