BGC picks Gamstop to run single customer view trial

The aim of the trial is to identify individuals at risk of harm and put provisions in place to ensure they are protected by all regulated operators.

Under the system, data of customers’ play across different operators may be shared, meaning customers who have exhibited signs of gambling problems should be unable to move to a different operator without an intervention being put in place, and spending spread across many operators can be recognised more quickly.

This will come in a number of forms, including safeguards and bans for at-risk customers who wish to play with other operators.

Members of the BGC are investing more than £1m in the trial.

Previously, concerns from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) regarding data sharing had delayed the trial.

However, in October last year, the ICO expressed its support for the single customer view.

“I am delighted with the commitment from BGC members and the significant financial investment they are undertaking to get on with delivering this scheme quickly,” said Wes Himes, executive director for standards and innovation for the Betting and Gaming Council. “While many companies put forward proposals for this system, it was clear that Gamstop stood out from the rest.”

“We are committed to ensuring the trial scheme which focuses on those most at risk is proportionate and effective. We are getting on with the work of change and once again, demonstrating that despite the challenges and complexities, when it comes to safer gambling, technology is our friend.”

The trial is set to take place by the end of March 2022.

In October 2020 British Gambling Commission chief executive Neil McArthur said that the financial sector could aid in making gambling safer by supporting a single customer view. Minister responsible for gambling Chris Philp also backed the idea.

The following month McArthur announced that there had been progress in the single customer view implementation, stating that the Commission had spoken to operators and technology suppliers and felt confident to go ahead.

Last month the BGC urged operators involved with sports partnerships to promote safer gambling to fans.