United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) updated new guidance. Updating aims to stop unfair consumer practices. 

The Commission reported that licensees have been using terms of play that could be deemed unfair, labeling their recent update as 'necessary'. They stated that in some cases, it would provide operators with 'undue discretion' in deciding outcomes and disputes.

The new guidance also means that licensed operators have been urged to review their offers, such as bonuses and wagering requirements. They must comply with the Commission's code of practice when it comes to 'Rewards, Bonuses, and other marketing requirements'.

Further comments from the Commission said, "You must adhere to the CMA's principles to demonstrate compliance with license conditions and to ensure that gambling is provided fairly. This is in line with the second licensing objective of ensuring that gambling is conducted fairly and openly".

The UKGC has highlighted discretions regarding terms that "allow licensees to confiscate customers' un-stake deposits". They also looked at "the treatment of customers' funds where a licensee believes there has been illegal, irregular or fraudulent play". 

The Commission highlighted further concerns regarding operators reducing potential winnings on open bets and online games. The current terms entitled licensees to void real winnings if a player had inadvertently broken their staking rules. 

Part of the requirements means that online casinos must be able to prove that they have applied their terms and conditions fairly and transparently. The new guidance issued by the UKGC states that operators' terms and conditions must be transparent with the Consumer Rights Act 2015. 

A spokesperson from the UKGC said, "The contractual terms on which gambling is offered and any consumer notices relating to gambling activity must be transparent within the meaning of the Consumer Rights Act 2015."

They also said that "customers must be notified of material changes to terms before they come into effect."