UK’s Gambling Commission orders gambling companies to do away with unfair cash withdrawal restrictions

The UK’s Gambling Commission has specifically ordered online gambling businesses to remove unfair restrictions placed on users from withdrawing money from their gambling accounts. The commission warned that it will take action against the companies if this order is met.

This move comes following the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announcing the outcome of its latest investigation into unfair terms and practices in the online gambling sector.

The CMA has published enforcement action against two gambling companies, both of which have now pledged to make changes that ensure customers are not unfairly prevented from withdrawing their money. All gambling firms are now required to adhere to the standards set out by the CMA.

Paul Hope, Executive Director at the Gambling Commission, said: “We are committed to raising standards for consumers in the gambling sector to ensure they are getting a fair deal. We’ve already been working with the CMA to tackle unfair online gambling promotions, and today’s announcement will improve how customers are treated.”

“In July, we announced new rules (1), which will make it quicker and easier for the Commission to take action for breaches of consumer law. That includes taking action where firms breach the principles laid out by the CMA. We support the action taken by the CMA and expect all online gambling businesses to take immediate action to update their practices in line with these, or face action by the Commission in the future.”

The new rules will come into effect on 31 October 2018.