Australia: ReadyBet sanctioned over self-exclusion marketing breach
Hundreds of messages sent to individuals registered with BetStop.
Key points:
– ReadyBet contacted self-excluded individuals via app messages and SMS
– Over 2,300 marketing messages lacked required self-exclusion information
– ACMA has imposed remedial measures to address regulatory non-compliance
Online betting operator ReadyBet has been found in breach of Australia’s gambling self-exclusion regulations after contacting hundreds of individuals who had registered with the BetStop scheme. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has responded by issuing a formal remedial direction.
An investigation revealed that ReadyBet sent 273 marketing messages, including push notifications and SMS, to users who had enrolled with BetStop – the National Self-Exclusion Register. The service allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from online and phone wagering for periods ranging from three months to a lifetime.
In addition to direct breaches, ReadyBet failed to include mandatory BetStop promotional content in 2,342 push notifications sent via its mobile app. This omission constitutes a separate violation of regulatory requirements.
Good to know: Failure to comply with the ACMA’s directive may result in civil penalties being pursued through the courts
Under the remedial direction, ReadyBet is now required to undertake a comprehensive review of its marketing systems, including the role of any third-party service providers.
It must also arrange mandatory staff training to prevent future breaches involving self-excluded individuals.
The authority continues to monitor licensed operators for adherence to national wagering safeguards.
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