In the UK, slot games are regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), which is responsible for ensuring that gambling is conducted fairly and openly and that it does not cause harm to the public or vulnerable groups – click to play.
Here are some of the key regulations and laws that apply to slot games in the UK:
Licensing
To operate in the UK, all slot game providers must hold a valid license issued by the UKGC. This license is granted only after the provider has demonstrated that they meet specific requirements, including measures to prevent money laundering and protect against problem gambling.
Advertising
All advertising for slot games must comply with the UK Advertising Codes issued by the Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP). These codes stipulate that advertising must be socially responsible and not mislead consumers. Providers must also ensure their advertising does not appeal to children or young people.
Player Protection
UKGC-licensed providers must have robust player protection measures to prevent problem gambling. This includes offering self-exclusion options, setting deposit limits, and providing access to support services for those at risk of harm.
Fair Play
Independent testing agencies must certify all slot games as fair and random. These agencies, known as “test houses”, conduct regular audits of game software to ensure that the outcomes are genuinely unexpected and not influenced by any external factors.
RTP (Return to Player)
All UK slot games must publish their RTP, the percentage of wagered money paid back to players over time. This is typically displayed as a percentage and indicates how much of each pound wagered is expected to be returned to the player as winnings.
Age Verification
Providers of online slot games must take reasonable steps to verify the age of their customers. This may include requesting proof of age documentation and implementing age verification checks during registration.
Responsible Gambling Tools
UKGC-licensed providers must offer a range of responsible gambling tools to help customers control their gambling. These tools may include setting deposit limits, taking a break from gambling, and self-exclusion options.
UK slot games are subject to strict regulations and laws designed to protect players and prevent harm. Providers must hold a valid license, comply with advertising standards, offer player protection measures, ensure fair play, publish RTP, verify the age of customers, and provide responsible gambling tools.
Online Slots
As slot play generates the vast majority of gambling revenue, most UKGC’s new laws focus on it. The updated slot machine guidelines are as follows:
- A total ban on slot features, like the turbo mode, that give you very little time between bets.
- The UK Gambling Commission also forbade auto-play use because they believed it discouraged gamblers from walking away from the table or switching games.
- The United Kingdom Gambling Commission prohibits any design element that gives the player a false sense of control over the spin. LDWs, or “losses that look like wins,” are excellent examples. LDWs happen when a player wins, but the payout is less than their stake.
