Cyprus launches self-exclusion platform consultation
Licensed online betting firms would be obligated to participate in platform and include self-exclusion links under new proposals
The National Betting Authority (CNBA) of Cyprus has launched a consultation on the possible development of a unified self-exclusion platform for the island’s gambling industry.
Participation in the self-exclusion platform would be mandatory for both licensed online sports betting firms and their land-based counterparts. Under proposals, operators would also be required to include links to the self-exclusion platform within all online gambling sites.
The consultation calls for the development of a user-friendly interface that will “allow easy registration with a few clicks”.
In addition, the consultation stipulates individuals should be able to register on the system without having to be registered players with a licensed bookmaker.
Any online and land-based betting operators that “exclusively apply player identification systems” are obliged to participate in the self-exclusion platform.
Players will be able to select a period for self-exclusion, or they can opt out permanently.
Sports betting operators would be required to check the platform for all individuals choosing to self-exclude, with operators taking “all necessary measures” to prohibit the sending of promotional marketing material to any players registered.
Registration to the platform will be open for Cypriot citizens, and people from EU and non-EU countries who are over 18 years old and who participate or intend to participate in betting activities with licensed bookmakers within Cyprus.
The ownership and management of the Unified Self-Exclusion Platform will belong to the CNBA with all data collection and processing taking place under EU GDPR standards.
Licensed bookmakers will be allowed a period to convert and adjust their software systems, in order to make them compatible with the platform.
In addition, all licensed online sports betting firms would be required to transfer any monies within the account of any player who chooses to self-exclude back to the player within five days.
The consultation period ends on 24 July.
Cyprus currently has nine licensed online sports betting operators including Parimatch and six retail betting operators.