Entain ordered to address compliance issues involving Ladbrokes, Neds, and BetStop violations

(AsiaGameHub) –   Entain has entered into an enforceable remediation programme after Australia’s communications regulator identified over 500 breaches linked to national self-exclusion requirements.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) determined that the operator, which runs Ladbrokes AU and Neds AU, failed to meet its obligations under BetStop, Australia’s National Self-Exclusion Register.

The investigation revealed instances where accounts were opened for individuals already registered with BetStop, as well as cases where existing accounts remained active despite customers having opted for self-exclusion.

According to ACMA, some self-excluded users continued to place bets, in certain cases through multiple accounts.

ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood stated:

When a person enrolls in BetStop, wagering companies are required to close all accounts associated with that individual across their services. In this instance, Entain’s systems did not sufficiently identify or link all accounts held by those customers across its platforms, including one account that stayed open for more than a year following self-exclusion. Once someone registers for self-exclusion, there must be no possibility of opening new accounts for licensed wagering services in Australia. These shortcomings exposed weaknesses in Entain’s systems and raised serious concerns about the protection of vulnerable customers.

ACMA has recently found that certain newly created player accounts on licensed wagering sites in Australia belonged to individuals already listed on BetStop, which prohibits participation. According to ACMA Chair Ms. Lidgerwood, anyone on BetStop should be unable to register new accounts with any licensed wagering provider in Australia.

Instead of issuing a formal infringement notice, ACMA accepted an 18-month Enforceable Undertaking from Entain Group Pty Ltd.

As part of the agreement, Entain must engage an independent consultant to evaluate compliance, governance, and operational procedures. The consultant will present findings and recommendations to both Entain and ACMA.

Based on the review, Entain is required to develop and implement a corrective action plan within 60 business days. Regular progress reports must be submitted to ACMA.

Additionally, Entain is obligated to voluntarily report any future breaches or complaints related to BetStop compliance. Non-compliance with these conditions may result in financial penalties imposed by the courts.