GamStop is an online self-exclusion scheme that enables players to take control of their gambling habits by offering them a way to restrict themselves. From the start, the scheme focused on online gambling platforms. It allowed people to exclude themselves from participating in online betting for a specific period. However, there have been recent advancements that have extended the reach of the scheme to include telephone and email betting services. This is a major step towards improving consumer protection in the gambling industry. But how do these changes affect GamStop casino operators and the players who frequent them?
Gamstops Regulatory Changes
The Gambling Commission in Great Britain has announced significant changes to its Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP) after consulting in February 2023. It involves two changes to:
- Payment services
- Multi-operator self-exclusion
For casino operators affected by these new rules, integration with GamStop's API becomes mandatory. This integration enables efficient cross-referencing processes, facilitating the identification and exclusion of self-excluded players across various platforms. The industry-wide compliance is a regulatory necessity and a proactive step towards fostering a safer gambling environment. To gain a thorough comprehension of these alterations and the impact they have on individuals who visit casinos, continue reading.
1. Updated Payment Methods and Services
The Gambling Commission has proposed modifications to Licence Condition 5.1.2 to adhere to the Payment Services Regulations 2017. The industry aims to align with current and forthcoming legislative requirements by revising the payment methods and service conditions. Under Schedule 1 Part 1 of the Payment Services Regulations 2017 (SI 2017 No 752), the proposed changes highlight the importance of aligning with compliant payment service providers to protect customers and prevent money laundering.
From 31st January 2024, the changes apply to remote casinos, bingo, and remote betting intermediary services. These changes would apply to UK-registered casinos in the GamStop network. However, casinos not on GamStop operate independently, and the new regulations do not apply. Instead of being limited to proposed updated payment methods and processes, Non-GamStop platforms can still accept a variety of payment methods and create their own processes.
Payment Transaction Classifications
When casino operators and betting platforms handle transactions related to depositing funds to a gambling account or withdrawing winnings, these activities can be classified as payment services. The execution of payment transactions, such as funds transfers, direct debits, or credit transfers, all fall within the scope of payment services.
Execution of Payment Transactions
Under GamStops regulations, the handling of transactions, such as depositing funds into a gambling account or withdrawing winnings, will be categorised as payment services. These transactions will be subject to the Payment Services Regulations 2017 regulations, ensuring a regulated and compliant financial environment.
Limitations on Payment Instruments
Under GamStop Regulation, payment methods that have limited functionality might not be considered payment services. This could affect individuals if a casino introduces cards or tokens that can solely be used for particular transactions within the casino. Users may need to adapt to the payment methods officially approved and specified in the regulations.
Impact on Casino Players
The proposed changes to the payment methods and services indirectly affect casino players. The revision emphasizes the requirement for casinos to use payment services that comply with established standards. As a result, players may notice changes in online casinos' payment methods, such as only accepting payment methods that qualify as payment services. This might exclude cryptocurrencies, PayPal, and other payment options not allowed by Gamstop. By reinforcing the mandate for casinos to use payment service providers that meet the Payment Services Regulations 2017 criteria, players can expect a more consistent and closely monitored experience when interacting with different online casinos, as these platforms will adhere to similar payment method standards.
2. Expansion to Telephone and Email Betting
With the inclusion of telephone and email betting services, Gamstop now encompasses a wider range of gambling activities under its protective measures. Players who use telephone and email betting services will now be included in the GamStop multi-operator self-exclusion program. Additionally, they will have the option to voluntarily exclude themselves from all online gambling activities for a minimum of six months. The adoption of this decision is in accordance with the collaborative efforts of the industry to address the changing landscape of gambling practices and establish a more comprehensive approach towards player well-being. These changes will be implemented starting from 1st April 2024.
The Impact on Casino Players
Casino players, especially those using telephone and email betting services, will directly experience the consequences of these changes. The availability of self-exclusion remains significant, as it equips players with a means to control their gambling habits and take necessary breaks. The duration of self-exclusion offers flexibility, accommodating individual preferences and circumstances.
