UKGC Announces Online Slots Autoplay Ban as New Rules Released

Changes based on White paper recommendations

by - Wednesday, May 1st, 2024 1:13

Casino gambling machine

The Gambling Commission has announced new rules and guidelines as part of the UK government’s gambling industry reform.

The changes reflect the recommendations made in the white paper – High stakes: gambling reform for the digital age.

Key Highlights of New Changes

Financial Vulnerability Checks and Risk Assessments

Light touch financial vulnerability checks for customers with a net deposit of more than £150 a month on gambling.

UKGC Announces Online Slots Autoplay Ban as New Rules Released

Reducing Intensity of Online Games

New regulations to lower the speed and intensity of online products. This will improve consumer understanding regarding gameplay and potential losses.

This means a ban on:

  • Autoplay
  • Turbo/Speed up features
  • In-game celebrations of wins less than the stake
  • Option to play multiple games at once
  • Spins speeds of less than 5 seconds

Gambling operators must also display net spend and time spent gambling at all times.

These changes will come into force on 17th January 2025.

Improving Consumer Choice for Direct Marketing

Gambling operators must now provide customers with better options to opt-in and opt-out of direct marketing for gambling products. This applies to online gambling only.

Changes come into force on 17 January 2025.

In-Person Age Verification

UKGC Announces Online Slots Autoplay Ban as New Rules Released

Any customer who appears to be under 25 years of age must have their age verified.

UKGC Announces Online Slots Autoplay Ban as New Rules Released

Personal Management Licenses

Specific management roles within a gambling business are now expected to hold a personal management licence. Holders ensure that gambling within businesses is safe, fair and crime-free.

UKGC Announces Online Slots Autoplay Ban as New Rules Released UKGC Announces Online Slots Autoplay Ban as New Rules Released

“As a gambling regulator it’s vital that the introduction of new rules is based on evidence and takes into account the views of consumers and other interested parties.

We have listened to the views expressed in our engagement and in the consultation responses, and we have made changes while still ensuring that we deliver meaningful protections.

We are also pleased to be taking forward a pilot of financial risk assessments and data collection, which together will ensure that we can make informed decisions about how these assessments can be implemented in a way that supports both consumer freedom and protections.

UKGC Announces Online Slots Autoplay Ban as New Rules Released
Olivia Richardson

Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.