Online gaming sites currently operating under license by the government of Gibraltar will find themselves having to meet a number of additional criteria under the country’s new legislation. The introduction of a further 15 online gambling firms to the country recently prompted calls for a new statutory licensing and regulatory framework, and Gibraltar’s government has been happy to oblige.

“This will ensure that Gibraltar remains the world’s foremost reputable jurisdiction for virtual and online casino gambling,” a government spokesman said in relation to the country’s new legislation.

One feature of the legislation is the introduction of a licensing authority. This function is currently under the jurisdiction of the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority but will become ministerial responsibility, leaving the Authority to take on its new role of Gambling Commissioner. The new laws also feature provisions for law enforcement and the appointment of independent investigators.

Further features of the new legislation are designed to protect those susceptible to problem gambling or gambling addiction. By law every gambling website operating from Gibraltar must include a section on ‘Responsible Gambling’ which along with a link to an organization that deals with problem gambling must feature a warning for players discouraging them from gambling beyond their means. Each website must also designate an individual responsible for the implementation of gambling policies and must avoid advertising that is “false, deceptive or misleading.”

In addition, the full name and address of the license holder must feature on the website. Computer equipment must be “secure and free from access by unauthorized persons.” And if money laundering is suspected, the license holder is under obligation to inform the Gambling Commissioner within a 24 hour period.

The new legislation was passed in the Gibraltar House of Assembly last week.

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