If you are going to gamble online safely, then it is important you understand exactly how online gambling laws work. In this guide to online gambling laws, Gambling Zone is going to take a look at some of the most important regulators in the gambling industry, how you can know if gambling sites are safe to use, and more.
Who Regulates the Online Gambling Industry?
The online gambling industry is a complex web of laws and regulations. The legality of gambling varies from country to country, with some countries not having their own regulated markets, others outright banning it, and others having regulated markets operated by governments and regulatory bodies.
Let’s take a look at some of the regulators that control the industry:
United Kingdom Gambling Commission: The UK is one of the most popular gambling markets in the world and has a robust regulatory framework in place by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). The UKGC is seen as one of the most stringent and responsible regulators in the industry.
Malta Gaming Authority: The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is another industry-leading regulator. In most instances, the MGA license will cover gambling sites in countries where gambling is legal, but there is no regulator.
Curacao eGaming: You are likely to see the Curacao eGaming license in non-regulated countries. The regulator’s license is easier to obtain than the MGA license, but it is still perfectly legitimate.
These are the three most common licenses you will encounter at European online casinos. However, there are many more regulators in the industry. If you are a UK-based customer, you should be playing at UKGC-regulated casinos.
All of the UK casinos you will find reviewed here at Gambling Zone are 100% licensed and regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission.
How Do I Know if an Online Casino is Regulated?
Now you know who regulates online casinos, the next step is working out if your favourite gambling sites are regulated. Firstly, readers should note that any casino they sign up with through Gambling Zone is regulated and fair.
However, knowing how to check for yourself is still a vital skill when playing online. The first thing you should do when you sign up for any casino or sports betting site is scroll to the bottom of the website.
Licensed operators should clearly display their company licensing information at the bottom of the page. If it is not here, we recommend checking the About and FAQ pages of a site. However, licensing and security should be a key focus for any casino, and if you have to look too much for the information, then that might be a red flag.
How Do I Know if an Online Casino is Regulated
Why Is Regulation Important?
Online gambling regulation is an essential part of the online casino and sports betting experience. Operators play a vital role in ensuring that players are not exploited and that they have support if they need it.
For example, if you are a UK-based player and you feel like a gambling site is mistreating you, you can raise a dispute with the UKGC to help tackle the issue. They exist to not only set rules but also to ensure that operators are kept accountable.
It is also an instant indication to players that a website is legitimate. A lot of questionable companies operate in the gambling industry, and a license from a respected regulator is an operator’s way of instantly telling a player they are safe.
How Often Do Regulations Change?
Of course, regulations can have a big impact on the way you play at an online casino. For example, in the UK, all regulators are required to offer deposit limits, provide extensive responsible gambling resources, and check in with customers who may be struggling with their gambling habits.
Licensees and governing bodies can change regulations whenever they feel the need. However, sweeping changes to the whole industry, such as the ones introduced by the UK in the Gambling White Paper in 2023, are generational and can have a huge impact on the way we play.
Of course, if you live in a market that is currently unregulated, then there is always the chance a regulator will be formed and laws will change. In recent years, this has happened in several major markets, including Ireland, Brazil, and the US.
Gamble Responsibly
Gamble Responsibly
The one thing that is essential for everyone when playing online is remaining safe and gambling responsibly. The UK gambling scene is extremely well-regulated, and all regulated UK casinos will offer responsible gambling resources and tools to help players who may be in need of support. You can also check our detailed responsible gambling here at Gambling Zone if you feel as though your gambling is causing issues.
