UK Credit Card Gambling Ban Comes Into Force on April 14

The UK Gambling Commission announced on Tuesday a ban on gambling businesses that allow players in the UK to use credit cards to gamble.
 

CONSUMER PROTECTION

The ban will apply to all online and offline gambling products, with the exception of non-remote lotteries. What is more, customers will also not be allowed to fund e-wallets through a credit card in order to gamble. Online gambling operators will only be able to offer e-wallet payment options that do not allow the use of credit card funds for gambling purposes. This measure will provide a significant layer of additional protection to vulnerable consumers. 

In a statement, the commission held that “protecting the safety of consumers is at the heart of today’s credit card gambling ban.”
 

THE BAN IS LINKED TO THE CURRENT SITUATION
 

The UKGC’s chief executive officer, Neil McArthur, supports this plan, as he believes that using credit cards for gambling can often cause significant financial harm. He stated that the credit card ban is now more important than ever due to the coronavirus lockdown. 

The CEO informed that since the beginning of the lockdown in the UK, researchers have noticed an increase in the number of people using certain online gambling products, such as virtual sports and online slots. McArthur concluded his statement by promising to continue making changes that will benefit the UK gambling space and make it safer.

Last year, the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) ministers had a meeting with banks and gambling operators to discuss how companies could use technology and customer data to help those at risk of developing gambling problems, including those using credit cards.

Culture Minister Helen Whately said: “Whilst millions gamble responsibly, I have also met people whose lives have been turned upside down by gambling addiction. There is clear evidence of harm from consumers betting with money they do not have, so it is absolutely right that we act decisively to protect them.”

“We will be carrying out a review of the Gambling Act to ensure it is fit for the digital age and we will be launching a new nationwide addiction strategy in 2020,” she added.