Following a probe by the Gambling Commission revealing deficiencies in social responsibility and anti-money laundering practices, online gaming operator Gamesys has been slapped with a £6 million fine, according to the regulator.
Gamesys, which manages 16 websites like ballycasino.co.uk, doublebubblebingo.com, jackpotjoy.com, and megawayscasino.com, must also undergo an external audit to ensure effective implementation of its anti-money laundering and safer gambling policies and procedures, as stated by the Gambling Commission. Among its shortcomings was the failure to reach out to a customer who lost nearly £10,000 and conducting only one “responsible gambling interaction” with a consumer who lost £19,709 over five months.
Certain customers were able to bypass anti-money laundering measures and make substantial deposits without scrutiny, including one who deposited £14,585 in 28 weeks, another with £18,884 in just over six months, and a third with £34,280 in five and a half months. Kay Roberts, the Gambling Commission’s executive director of operations, stressed the regulator’s commitment to ensuring fair, safe, and crime-free gambling practices.
Liz Ritchie, co-chairwoman of Gambling with Lives, expressed concern over the impact of corporate negligence, citing cases of families grieving due to the failings of companies like Gamesys. She emphasised the ongoing suffering and loss resulting from such negligence, drawing parallels to other corporate scandals like the Post Office debacle.
