During the latest coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) reminded licensees to be socially responsible for their commercial contact.
The regulator reminded license holders that it is possible that many players would find the current situation highly distressing and confirmed that any marketing message that relates explicitly or indirectly to the disease would be regarded in violation of its regulations.
During Covid-19, MGA alerts licensees about marketing.
The MGA said business communications must not promote anti-social conduct or propose a solution to social, educational, personal, or professional problems or a socially appealing picture of gaming, or suggest a preferred approach to isolated gambling rather than social gaming.
Moreover, communications do not imply that gambling can be an option to job growth, financial solutions or substantial return.
The MGA also directed operators to inform the affiliates of these rules so that they are responsible for marketing and the license holders’ goods.
The Maltese regulator’s involvement is the latest in a gambling supervisory body that cracks down anyone who might look for financial benefits.
Late last month, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) of the North Dutch regulator condemned unauthorized operators for publishing ads that allow users to use illicit online gaming services at gameplay locations around the country because of Covid-19 outbreaks. Those who referred to the pandemic in their ads declared an additional €50,000 premium on any tax put on offshore operators.
A letter to online gaming operators, Neil McArthur, the Chairman of the UK Gambling Commission (26 March), reminded them of the importance of protecting customers and marketing obligations among this new coronavirus’s implications.
In contrast, MGA instructed operators to notify their affiliates of these regulations for marketing and license holders’ products. The Maltese regulatory authority’s presence is the latest in a play monitoring body that divides everyone who is searching for financial advantages.
McArthur said the licensees would ensure that their consumer safety levels remain as high as possible because of the enormous rise in the number of home people most of the way. Activities around online slots, poker, casino gaming and virtual sports have already evolved significantly, he noted.
