UK: Competition regulator launches crackdown against online gambling firms

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is launching enforcement action against a number of online gambling operators suspected of breaking consumer law.

The competition regulator said it is stepping up its investigation of the US$5 billion sector as it believes people aren’t getting “the deal they expect from sign-up promotions and operators are unfairly holding on to people’s money”.

Nisha Arora, CMA senior director for consumer enforcement, said: “We know online gambling is always going to be risky, but firms must also play fair. People should get the deal they’re expecting if they sign up to a promotion, and be able to walk away with their money when they want to.”

“Sadly, we have heard this isn’t always the case. New customers are being enticed by tempting promotions only to find the dice are loaded against them. And players can find a whole host of hurdles in their way when they want to withdraw their money.”

The CMA launched an investigation into whether gambling firms are treating their customers fairly in October last year.

As well as hearing from around 800 unhappy customers, it has also demanded companies answer questions about how they operate.

Having identified a number of operators engaging in practices likely to be breaking consumer law, the CMA is now taking enforcement action and has a range of powers at its disposal to bring any illegal activities to an end.

This investigation is part of a joint program of work with the Gambling Commission to tackle issues around fairness and transparency in the gambling industry.  In addition to the enforcement cases, the investigation may lead to further action to improve practices across the online gambling sector.

Full Content: The Guardian

Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.