Compliance Updates
EGBA Demonstrates Commitment To GDPR With Sectoral Code Of Conduct For Data Protection
New Code establishes rules and best practices to strengthen data protection in the online gambling sector and is one of Europe’s first sector-specific initiatives to support compliance with the GDPR.
BRUSSELS, 10 June 2020 – The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has published a Code of Conduct on data protection which establishes dedicated sector-specific rules and best practices to ensure compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 and promotes the highest standards of data protection in the online gambling sector.
The Code of Conduct on Data Protection in Online Gambling sets long-term data protection standards for Europe’s online gambling sector and is intended to complement and reinforce the sector’s compliance with the GDPR. The Code is one of Europe’s first ever sector-specific self-regulatory initiatives to support compliance with the GDPR. The Code is part of EGBA’s wider efforts to drive standards in the online gambling sector and is in accordance with the GDPR, which encourages the use of sector-specific codes to support the proper application of its provisions[1].
The Code introduces specific measures and best practices on:
- Enhancing portability rights – including rules to enable customers to transfer their personal data from company to company in an easier and secure way (including rules for player account registration, transactions history, marketing preferences, etc).
- Supporting transparency – specifying what needs to be contained in a company’s privacy policy and which are the possible exceptions to the transparency principle, in view of the specificities of the sector.
- Protecting against breaches of personal data – online gambling companies are required to introduce a plan to prevent and/or mitigate against breaches of personal data.
- Establishing VIP accounts – how companies should establish player accounts for “VIP” customers in a way which respects privacy and the use of personal data.
- Safer gambling – how companies should balance a customer’s privacy rights against the need to protect them from problem gambling.
- Direct marketing – guidance on how to protect customer data during direct marketing and to prevent self-excluded customers from receiving direct marketing.
- Detecting fraud – measures to prevent fraud and ensure data is used to comply with applicable laws.
All EGBA members will adhere to the Code and it is also open for signature to other online gambling companies licensed in the EU/EEA. Compliance with the Code will be monitored by an independent third-party monitoring body.
In line with the requirements of the GDPR, the Code has now been submitted to the Maltese Data Protection Authority for formal approval of the Code’s compliance with GDPR. This is a process which involves data protection authorities in other EU countries, and the European Data Protection Board, and can last between 18-24 months.
“On the 2-year anniversary of the GDPR, issues around data protection, privacy and the use of personal data are still a concern for many European citizens. That’s why we’re pleased to introduce this new code which demonstrates the online gambling sector’s commitment to protecting the personal data of our 16.5 million customers and supporting the success of the GDPR. We’re pleased to be one of Europe’s first industry sectors to introduce a self-regulatory code which supports compliance with GDPR. Data, and how it is used, is playing an increasing important role in how citizens and business interact online – and the online gambling sector is no different. This code outlines how online gambling companies should ensure their customers understand how their personal data is being used and provides important guidance on how companies should use personal data in their interactions with customers, including how they identify and address problem gambling behavior in their customers.” – Maarten Haijer, Secretary General, EGBA.
[1] Article 40, General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679.
Compliance Updates
Playnetic strengthens European presence with licence to operate in Sweden
Playnetic, the new immersive B2B iGaming provider has announced that it has been granted a Swedish licence, following regulatory approval from the Swedish Gambling Authority, Spelinspektionen.
The licence allows Playnetic to launch its catalogue of innovative iGaming titles in Sweden, enabling the company to finalise partnerships with prominent operators across the country.
This significant milestone marks a major step forward in supporting Playnetic’s ambitious growth plans, which include increasing its foothold in other European markets, as well as continued expansion in regulated markets across the globe.
Dan Phillips, Playnetic CEO said: “Since launching in early 2023, Playnetic has been exploring expansion opportunities in Europe to penetrate new markets and we are thrilled with achieving this milestone.
“Thanks to our experienced compliance team, we were able to obtain this licence promptly, which is a huge positive as the market entry lines up perfectly with our regulatory roadmap for 2024. We are looking forward to launching our innovative suite of games which feature captivating themes and mechanics to players and operators in Sweden.”
Balkans
Bulgarian President Approves Gambling Law Amendments
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has decided not to veto the proposed amendments to the Gambling Law, which include a prohibition on gambling advertisements in the media.
Previously, President Radev had indicated that he was deliberating on the changes to the Gambling Law and was awaiting input from his advisors before making a final decision.
The prohibition on gambling advertisements in the media was approved by a significant majority of deputies during the final session of the 49th National Assembly. Despite objections raised by various media outlets, gambling operators, sports clubs, and other businesses between the readings, the amendments were endorsed. Some stakeholders argued against the ban, suggesting that public discussion should precede its adoption.
The initiative for the amendments originated from GERB and DPS, and it was introduced unexpectedly during the last days of the 49th National Assembly by Yordan Tsonev (DPS) and Temenuzka Petkova (GERB). The bill swiftly progressed through the legislative process, passing its first reading in the budget committee and subsequently receiving approval in the plenary session. An extraordinary meeting of the Committee on Budget and Finance was convened to facilitate the voting on the amendments before the deputies commenced their pre-election recess.
Compliance Updates
Playson awarded ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification
Playson, the fast-growing digital entertainment supplier, has been granted an ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certificate, reinforcing its commitment to implementing robust compliance measures.
Having previously gained an ISO 27001:2013 certificate three years ago, this updated version is key in safeguarding sensitive information and required for Playson to hold its existing licences in valuable regulated markets.
This latest development coincides with Playson’s plans to further extend its outreach across a number of regions over the next 12 months, paving the way for the supplier to enter new jurisdictions in a more streamlined way.
The accreditation was awarded by Quinel and recognises the provider’s adherence in aligning with the standards that the International Organisation for Standardisation sets, demonstrating its ability to mitigate any information security risks whilst meeting all necessary legal and regulatory requirements.
The 2022 version includes updates and revisions to better address contemporary information security risks and challenges, such as those related to cloud computing, remote working, and emerging technologies. It provides organisations with a framework for implementing and managing an effective information security management system (ISMS) to protect their sensitive information assets.
Vsevolod Lapin, Deputy CEO at Playson, said: “The transition to ISO 2022 is welcome news for the business, and shows our continued dedication to compliance and regulation. Partners can rest assured of Playson’s heightened security measures and adherence to international standards with us acquiring this certificate.
“Greece, Ontario and Sweden are vital territories for Playson, with this certification also necessary for the Swiss market, and I expect the ISO 2022 to be required for more jurisdictions in the future, so this recognition has been received at a good time as we look to strengthen our global standing.”
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