ECOGRA, the non-profit organization’s Responsible Gambling manager, Tex Rees, recently conducted in-house courses at various online casino, poker and sportsbook operations in four countries.
The course included tuition on how to deal with problem gamblers and to understand how a compulsion can develop. It also included role-playing exercises and in-depth discussion sessions.
The implementation of eCOGRA best practice” standards and requirements was also included in the course as well as a discussion on advertising standards and the fact that the UK Advertising Standards Authority had recently criticized certain gambling ads.
“Responsible gambling ranks very high in eCOGRA priorities for both social responsibility and business reasons," said Rees. "This year is the fifth in which eCOGRA has provided this professional service to Fair and Safe seal-bearing online gambling venues across the online casino, poker room, mobile, bingo, live dealer and sports betting platforms of the 145 international, tier one gambling sites that are accredited.
"It is heartening to note that this vitally important service is in constant demand, illustrating a real commitment to responsible gambling by eCOGRA operators that goes beyond merely meeting the standard accreditation requirements in this regard”.
In a 2007 UK study, it was found that only 0.06% of adults are at risk of being “pathological gamblers”. However, it is essential that operators ensure that their staff is trained and that facilities are available to these players.
Ecogra, is a non-profit player protection and standards organization that is based in London and provides an international framework for best operational practice requirements, emphasizing on fair and responsible gambling. The requirements are enforced through reviews, inspections and ongoing monitoring.