More online gambling restrictions on the way

The UK newspaper The Telegraph reported over the weekend that the UK Gambling Commission is about to unveil further regulations restricting online gambling.

The newspaper reports that the regulations will force gambling companies to introduce age checks on their websites in a bid to stop children from using them.

Providing free games on gambling websites without first carrying out age checks will be restricted in order to ensure that under-age players are not using these facilities.

Media coverage has long been critical of the use of cartoon and other themes likely to appeal to children on free games such as roulette, poker and slot machines, and there is concern that unrestricted free games may “normalise” gambling for a generation of children.

The Telegraph also reports that plans are underway to outlaw the current 72 hour delay for age verification checks.