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State of Play: In light of increasing concerns regarding children’s exposure to online gambling content, GambleAware is advocating for urgent reforms in marketing regulations.
The organization warns that current rules are outdated, and it is calling for stricter measures to shield young audiences from potential gambling harm.
GambleAware has released a concerning report highlighting the risks associated with children encountering online gambling marketing before they are of legal age. The charity argues that these current regulations, which were established long before the internet’s pervasiveness among youth, fail to adequately protect minors.
Outdated regulations?
As expressed by GambleAware Transition CEO Anna Hargrave, children are confronted with gambling promotions that normalize the activity as ‘risk-free,’ fostering an environment ripe for gambling-related harms. This situation is underscored by a staggering report stating that 85,000 children in Britain are predicted to experience gambling-related harm in 2024, doubling the figure from 2023.
Stakeholders may anticipate upcoming proposals that address these responsible gambling concerns, potentially influencing state-level legislation and setting new precedents for responsible advertising practices.
Scrutiny of advertising expected to grow
The implications of the GambleAware report are significant. As the conversation around online gambling regulations evolves, operators might face increased scrutiny and accountability for their marketing practices.
Stricter regulations, including mandatory health warnings on advertisements and a clearer liability framework for online platforms, could reshape how gambling content is presented to prospective audiences, especially minors.
This reform would aim to ensure that marketing does not inadvertently encourage gambling behaviors among young people, thereby affecting how operators engage with their target demographics moving forward.
Looking ahead, it is likely that discussions will intensify regarding the update of online gambling regulations to reflect modern realities. As the industry shifts, discussions and scrutiny will only intensify if the risk for children persists.
Based on reporting by Laura Mack for Gambling Insider.
