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Underage gambling prevention
A recent mystery shopping exercise undertaken by the Gambling Commission has revealed a high failure rate for bricks and mortar gambling operators.
The undercover exercise saw 98 of 100 shops tested, allow an under age gambler to place a bet at the counter. As a result, the Commission has written to licensed bookmakers reminding them that they must implement procedures that prevent under 18s from entering a betting shop or placing a bet.
Online Gaming operators must put into place robust age verification procedures to prevent under age gambling online. In the mystery shopping exercise carried out by the Gambling Commission, the mystery shopper was aged 17; which may explain why staff found it difficult to spot and prevent the best being placed. Using age verification software negates the need for gaming staff to make a judgment as to a person's age, based on ther personal appearance.
Nevertheless asking for appropriate identification is still vital whether gaming companies are operating on the high street or online. Director of Regulation at the Commission, Nick Tofiluk commented: "We are extremely concerned at these results - further mystery shopping exercises will be conducted to ensure that controls are adequate and effective".
27th May 2009
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