Is Gambling Advertising Regulation Still Slipping Behind Technology?
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Gambling is a big part of British culture. There is an increase in gambling addictions since the advent of online casinos. 1.4 million Brits are currently suffering from problem gambling. 9.2% of people who play online casino games become addicted. Experts wonder if gambling advertising regulations have slipped behind the technology.
The UEFA European Football Championship 2020 is the target of protesters. The Gambling with Lives charity launched the “Big Step” campaign to call for a ban on advertising gambling during games. Until 2005, there was no regulatory body governing bookmakers, both online and physical. In 2019, the government imposed a maximum bet of £2 per turn on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals.
In April 2021 the government banned the use of credit cards when depositing funds for online gambling. Charities argue that the Government isn't doing enough to curb gambling addictions. Currently, gambling advertisements aren't allowed before 9 pm in the UK.
The government is expected to consider stricter gambling advertising regulations in 2021. Social media is a huge platform for gambling ads. It offers potential customers the ability to click straight through to the website. Facebook's reach allows marketers to target people with specific interests.
Advertising Standards Agency is cracking down on social media being used to advertise products. Technology is changing how people access information and how companies reach their potential audiences. There is no mention of stricter regulations on the social networking platforms. The current gambling reforms focus on TV adverts and sponsoring games. However, with the media catching onto the fact that the Advertising Standards agency are starting to come down harder on rule-breakers, it could be addressed in the future. It is possible that gambling regulation will focus more on technology.
