SPER publishes draft framework for gambling terms and conditions – Casino Beats

Swedens independent online gambling trade association has released a draft framework to ensure customers are safeguarded by fair terms when engaging with online gambling services.

Published by Spelbranschens Riksorganisation, the advisory framework outlining best practices on consumer terms and conditions for its members to follow has been developed in response to criticism by Swedens Consumer Agency, Konsumentverket.

Commenting on the guidelines, SPER chief executive, Jenny Nilzon, noted: The Swedish Consumer Agency has pointed out that there is great potential for improvement when it comes to agreements.

This framework is intended as a help and guidance. Our recommendation is based on it being clear and comprehensible to consumers what applies when you become and are a customer.

As part of the nine-point framework, SPER emphasised that clarity is deemed as the overriding dynamic, in which operators must provide customers with a clear understanding and interpretation of its contract terms.

Additionally, these terms must divulge full customer information on operator technicalities related to sign-up verifications, documentation required, data storage, deposits/withdrawals and customer deregistration rights.

Moreover, SPERs states that whilst operators can choose to apply foreign laws within their T&Cs the use of foreign laws cannot deprive or override mandatory consumer protections set by Swedish law.

Licensed operators must maintain a fair complaints procedure, in which customers are made aware of their rights to challenge operator decisions by using an authorised dispute resolution solution ARN (General Complaints Board) or EU online Dispute Resolution platform.

Last December, Konsumentverket alerted Swedish gambling inspectorate Spelinspektionen of a litany of deficiencies on consumer protections, following a review of 13 licensed operators terms and conditions.

At present, Swedish gambling sees itself at a critical crossroads as licensed operators await on whether the government will proceed with implementing the recommended measures of the Gambling Market Enquiry.

However, the long-term impacts of the vote of no confidence will not be truly felt until the successful appointment of a new Prime Minister by the Speaker of the Rikstag, Swedens parliament, and the conclusion of elections in September this year.

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SPER publishes draft framework for gambling terms and conditions - Casino Beats