The Malta Gaming Authority issued a notice warning licensees that, considering how much stress the pandemic could cause players, the gaming industry has to deliver “socially responsible commercial communications with respect to COVID-19”, also stating that this was “a very trying time for all” but could be “particularly distressing to players."

Any direct or indirect reference to COVID-19 or any related circumstance would be considered to amount to a breach of this regulation," the statement continued.

The MGA is also asking licensees to inform affiliates and make sure their strategies and marketing campaigns conform to an ethical and socially responsible manner, shunning anything that alludes to the global crisis, or encourages solitary gaming over social gaming.

Gambling Commission CEO Neil McArthur issued a similar warning for the Great British marker ealier this week.