A ‘package of strict measures’ has been announced by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) after a widespread public consultation highlighted the need for stricter controls while playing online slots.
Tighter Controls Necessary
Spin speeds and Autoplay features will be permanently banned as it encourages players to ‘speed up play or celebrate losses as wins’ said the UKGC.The public consultation which took place in July 2020 highlighted tighter controls would be necessary to initiate responsible gambling.On October 31st, online operators will implement changes to slot games features relating to:*Making slots faster than 2.5 seconds*Autoplay – as players can lose track of their play*Quickspin functionalities*Gameplay sounds or imagery which give the illusion of a win when the return is in fact equal to, or below, a stake
Removal of Quick Spins, Autoplay, and Reverse Withdrawals
The UKGC found slot games were responsible for ‘by far the highest average losses per player of any online gambling product’ and the removal of quick spins and autoplay is necessary to protect players who may otherwise lose track of the time spent playing and losses they may incur.Furthermore, new customers registering with an online casino will now see their total losses and wins and time spent playing games displayed at all times. A total ban on reverse withdrawals will also be implemented, where players can play again with money they previously requested to withdraw.Neil McArthur UKGC chief executive said ‘the regulator had taken drastic actions to remove all intensify play features from slots, in which evidence pointed to higher risks associated with ‘loss of player control, or binge play.’“To make online games safer we are introducing a ban on features that speed up play or give the illusion of control over the outcome. We are also introducing a ban on autoplay, losses disguised as wins, and slot spin speeds faster than 2.5 seconds. The evidence shows that these features increase the risk of harm to customers.”Sports minister Nigel Huddleston said, “Today’s steps will help curb the intensity of online gambling, introducing greater protections that will reduce risk of gambling-related harm.”