New version of the framework addresses European criteria
This week came an announcement from eCOGRA, the London-based independent player protection and standards body, which informed the public of the publishing of a revised version of its Generally Accepted Practices (eGAPS). According to the announcement, the new version of the eGAPS addresses the matter of the European regulatory development, and provides a professional framework for safe, fair, efficient and responsible business activity for the eCOGRA accredited operators.
In addition, the aim of the revisions was to put the CEN Responsible Remote Gambling Measures within the eCOGRA's requirements, but also to provide a comprehensive framework that will meet the appropriate requirements of most regulatory authorities.
It was stated by eCOGRA's Chief Executive, Andrew Beveridge: "The regulatory landscape now evolving in Europe has seen a growing number of nations opting for a competitive but strictly regulated online gambling market, and decisions are likely to be increasingly informed by the required measures of the CEN Workshop Agreement which were framed earlier this year."
"By aligning our eGAPs with these recommendations, which cover nine key areas of activity, we not only provide a relevant and current roadmap to our accredited sites, but offer an expert framework useful to other operators committed to meeting requirements that are largely common to most regulatory initiatives,” he said, adding: "Operators who have achieved eCOGRA seal status should comply with the latest developments for CEN Responsible Remote Gambling Measures.”
As for CEN, one of three European Standardization Organizations officially recognized by the European Union, it draws up voluntary technical specifications, such as a CEN workshop agreement, to help facilitate a single market for European industry and consumers in its 31 European member-countries. Its Workshop Measures cover nine areas, including:
- The protection of vulnerable customers
- The prevention of underage gambling
- Combating fraud
- Protection of privacy
- Fair gaming
- Accurate customer payments
- Responsible marketing
- Customer satisfaction
- Safe operating environment
The revised eCOGRA document contains 134 detailed requirements under these headings, which are also included in the recommendations developed through consensus across a wide range of remote gambling stakeholders.
