What Do The New KYC Changes Mean For Customers?

On May 7th, the gambling commission cracked down on their own KYC rules to create a fairer and safer gambling environment.

Following an open consultation, the UKGC decided that age and identity checks must be performed much quicker to safeguard children and addicted gamblers, and those at risk of addiction.

Source: pixabay.com

What ‘s changed?

1. Age Verification

Previously Gambling Operators had a 72-hour window to fulfil age verification checks. This time frame allowed players under the age of 18 to gamble still and access free-to-play games.

The age verification check now occurs when the account is created/registered on the gambling website.

Operators must complete this check before players are allowed to place any bets, regardless if they're from a no-deposit bonus or no deposit free spin.

2. Identify Verification

A player's identity was not required upon signup but could be completed at a later time. Although it is a requirement to process any withdrawal requests.

The details required for ID verification are:

• Full Name
• Address
• Date of Birth

These details must now be verified once the gambling account has been created.

3. Free to Play games & Demo Games

Age verification must now be fulfilled before any access is granted for free-to-play gambling games.

Jeremy Wright, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said:

“These significant changes mean operators must check someone’s age before they gamble, and not after,”

“They rightly add an extra layer of protection for children and young people who attempt to gamble online. By extending strong age verification rules to free-to-play games we are creating a much safer online environment for children, helping to shut down a possible gateway to gambling-related harm.”

Bingo Ben

Ben has been an massive bingo enthusiast and fan since playing at the seaside as a kid. Dedicated to bringing you the latest and best bingo news from the UK