UK Gaming Regulator To Begin Enforcing New Restrictions

The UK Gambling Commission has announced new regulations to strengthen consumer protections in the gambling industry. These measures will take effect in October, focusing on financial safeguards, responsible gaming, and greater transparency regarding player funds. The changes stem from the Gambling Act review white paper published in April 2023, which outlined proposals to modernize gambling laws in Great Britain.

One of the most significant updates requires all licensed operators to prompt new customers to set a deposit limit before making their first transaction. While some operators already offer similar options, this new rule will standardize the practice across all licensed gambling platforms. Players will also have the ability to adjust their limits over time, and operators will be required to remind users every six months to review their account and transaction history.

Key updates for deposit limits:

• Mandatory deposit limit set before the first transaction

• Flexibility to adjust limits over time

• Biannual reminders for players to review accounts and history

The Commission emphasized that these changes will provide players with better tools to manage their spending, making it easier to maintain responsible gambling habits. Research has shown that some consumers were confused by deposit limit policies, particularly when operators made adjustments to their systems. To address this, the regulator plans to conduct an additional consultation aimed at improving transparency and consistency in financial limits.

Another major change involves the introduction of a statutory levy, requiring gambling businesses to contribute a percentage of their gross gambling yield (GGY) toward research, prevention, and treatment of gambling-related harm. The levy, first announced in November, will replace the previous system of voluntary contributions.

Statutory levy details:

• Contribution range: 0.1% to 1.1% of GGY

• Rate depends on type of gambling services offered

• Expected start date: April (unconfirmed)

The regulator is also increasing transparency regarding the protection of customer funds. Currently, licensed operators must disclose whether player funds are safeguarded in case of insolvency. The new rules go further by requiring operators to notify players about their level of protection every six months.

Categories of fund protection:

• No protection with no segregation

• No protection with segregation

• Medium protection

• High protection

While there is no legal obligation for gambling companies to secure player funds, many do so voluntarily. The Commission believes these updates will help consumers make informed decisions when choosing where to gamble, ensuring they are fully aware of the risks associated with each operator.

Tim Miller, executive director for research and policy at the Commission, stated that these changes reinforce the regulator’s commitment to fairness and transparency in the gambling industry. He highlighted that the new rules will not only assist players in managing their spending but also ensure they understand the status of their funds should an operator face financial difficulties.

Conclusion
The UK Gambling Commission’s new regulations mark a significant step in modernizing the gambling sector. By mandating deposit limits, enforcing statutory contributions, and enhancing transparency on fund protection, the regulator is prioritizing player safety, accountability, and trust—setting stronger standards for the future of responsible gambling in Britain.