The Gambling Commission has introduced a series of new measures to strengthen protection and control in online slot games. Under the new rules, operators are expected to make online casino games safer and less aggressive.
The UK entity cited slots as an area in need of change due to the intensity of the game and the risks for bettors, adding that titles have by far the highest average losses per player in online betting products.
The new rules include a total ban on automatic gambling, spin speeds in slots greater than 2.5 seconds, features that speed up the game and sounds or images that give the illusion of a win when the return is equal to or less than the bet.
Gambling Commission representative wants to reduce risk of damage to customers
Neil McArthur, the CEO of the Gambling Commission, said: “To make online games safer, we are introducing a ban on features that speed up the game or give the illusion of control over the outcome. We are also imposing a ban on automatic gambling, losses disguised as victories and rotation speeds in slots greater than 2.5 seconds. Evidence shows that these features increase the risk of damage to customers. ”
He added: “This is another important step to make the game safer, as our studies indicate that there are other opportunities to do so. And, we are determined to take advantage of them ”.
The Minister of Sports, Tourism and Heritage, Nigel Huddleston, also spoke publicly: “These steps will help to reduce the intensity of online gambling by introducing protections that will decrease the risk of damage related to excessive gambling”.
The UK minister further stressed that he is satisfied with “the Gambling Commission’s harsh measures as we continue our comprehensive review of gaming laws to ensure they are fit for the digital age”.
