Gambling firms fined £7,100,000 over social responsibility failures for customers
Two gambling companies have been fined £7.1 million for social responsibility and anti-money laundering failures.
The Gambling Commission has confirmed 32Red has failed to identify customers at risk of harm based on their long session times.
They were also found to have not implemented enough controls to identify potential problem gamblers.
One customer was allowed to deposit £43,000 and lose £36,000 within seven days, the commission said.
Those who were blocked from the operator were then able to register with Platinum Gaming.
The company was also found to have failed to identify and interact with customers who may have been experiencing harm.
32 Red Limited, which runs 32red.com, will pay £4,195,655 and Platinum Gaming Limited, which runs unibet.co.uk, will pay £2,937,599.
Both have also received an official warning following the Gambling Commission investigation.
Gambling Commission Kay Roberts said: ‘These failures highlight clearly that both operators failed to interact with customers in a way which minimises the risk of them experiencing harms associated with gambling.
‘Our investigations also showed that policies and procedures were overlooked, both around customer accounts and anti-money laundering practices.
‘Ultimately, it is an example which all gambling operators should take notice of to ensure they protect customers at all times.’
Kindred Group chief executive Henrik Tjarnstrom said: ‘While we accept the outcome, and the acknowledgment that we have already taken significant steps to strengthen our processes, we also recognise that we need to work even harder to ensure a safe and compliant business.
‘We appreciate the Commission’s clear recognition that our operations are in an improving position and that we remain fit to hold an operating licence.
‘Our commitment to reducing gambling harm across our platforms is a key part of our ‘journey towards zero’ ambition – and we are redoubling our efforts to ensure we continue that progress.’
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