Online gambling operators have been told to remove games featuring characters designed to appeal to children, in a letter signed by UK regulators the Gambling Commission and the Advertising Standards Authority. Some of the games are free to play, which experts say presents a risk of children developing a gambling habit. Experts have warned that the games, some of which are free, could result in children developing a gambling habit. The letter, sent on Friday to over 450 operators including Bet365 and William Hill, warned that sanctions were possible if companies failed to comply with the Committee of Advertising Practice’s social responsibility code. “Children can be exposed to gambling, whether it is through online or offline gaming sites, as well as other forms of gambling,” said Fiona O’Neill, director general at the advertising watchdog.
Online gambling operators have been told to remove games featuring characters designed to appeal to children, in a letter signed by UK regulators the Gambling Commission and the Advertising Standards Authority. Experts have warned that the games, some of which are free, could result in children developing a gambling habit. The letter, sent on Friday to over 450 operators including Bet365 and William Hill, warned that sanctions were possible if companies failed to comply with the Committee of Advertising Practice’s social responsibility code. “Children can be exposed to gambling, whether it is through online or offline gaming sites, as well as other forms of gambling,” said Fiona O’Neill, director general at the advertising watchdog.