Denmark to improve consumer protection with new Code of Conduct
The local regulator has set a new code of conduct, which is set to enter into force on July 1.
Denmark.- Spillemyndigheden, the Danish gambling regulator, has published a new Code of Conduct, which is set to come into force on July 1, 2019. This new standard is set to increase consumer protection and contribute to preventing compulsive gambling.
“With the Agreement on new initiatives against compulsive gambling and adjustments to the gambling agreement of June 28, 2018, it was decided that the gambling industry were to discuss a code of conduct to increase consumer protection and contribute to preventing gambling as entertainment developing into compulsive gambling,” said the regulator.
It added that the political agreement stated a wish to include in the discussion the limitation and design of gambling advertisements and the use of pop-ups with information of time and money spent on gambling.
DOGA, the trade association for online gambling in Denmark, said that the Code of Conduct should be considered as a benchmark as it sets minimum industry requirements. Individual gaming providers can go further than the code prescribes.
The association said that in addition to the preparations for clear frameworks for gaming advertising, the agreement must also ensure that the amount of advertising is reduced and that restrictions are placed. “The gaming industry will therefore work to conclude an agreement with the TV stations that must ensure that the number of game advertising is diminishing and that game advertising is not even up against television commercials that animate for quick borrowing or the like,” said DOGA.
Among the new regulations, advertising cannot suggest that games can be a solution to financial problems or showcase gambling as something indispensable. They also must have a responsible message prominently displayed that warns players to keep account of how much they’re spending.
Age restrictions must be shown on websites and social media along with responsible gambling information. Pop-up windows should also inform players how long they’ve been playing and how much money has been spent during that time. In order to continue playing, players must acknowledge the message or stop gambling.
