An independent UK watchdog, the Information Commissioner Office (ICO) has reported that certain online gambling affiliates have been spamming British citizens via text messages, which is an improper form of advertising and should not be allowed according to them. Knowing that the online gambling market in the country is growing it is not surprising that affiliates are trying everything they can in order to get a share of the revenues.
However, it is more than clear that ICO will manage to draw attention to this problem and that the UK Gambling Commission will react. ICO has already sent a large number of letters to companies it believes have been advertising improperly. The watchdog claims that a large number of people have been angered by the unsolicited messages that they have received.
David Clancy, who currently serves as ICO anti-spam investigations managers said that many companies refuse to take responsibility, but added that there is no excuse for this kind of behaviour. ICO also warned companies that it can penalise companies with fines as high as half a million, if they violate data protection laws and regulations.
Earlier in November, a company was fined with £70,000 for sending illegal marketing texts. It has been reported that the company sent more than 2.2 million texts. ICO’s Head of Enforcement was clear and he stated that even if another company is in charge of marketing, it still doesn’t mean that there will no consequences for breaking the law.
Earlier this year, the Gambling Commission announced that it is reviewing regulations regarding fixed odds betting terminals and that it is possible for the maximum wagering amount to be decreased. Gambling related TV advertising may face further restrictions. Anti-money laundering rules may be further strengthened as well.