In any online-based industry, consumers recognise that dispute resolution can be tricky. When you have an issue with an online retailer or gaming site, you can almost always expect a long wait before the problem is resolved. While online casinos aim to provide effective dispute resolution, independent regulator eCOGRA wants to help things along with a new service.
This week, the UK Gambling Commission has certified eCOGRA to become a dispute resolution organisation for casinos in the jurisdiction. The new Alternative Dispute Resolution Group is available through eCOGRA’s website, and is free to players at over 350 online casinos.
"eCOGRA has developed a sophisticated software system to help manage and expedite the resolution of disputes with UKGC-licensed operators, and this, harnessed with the eCOGRA ADR team's considerable experience in online gambling mediation, will help resolve most disputes within 72 hours,” says Andrew Beveridge, CEO of eCOGRA.
The group will act as an impartial mediator in any disputes that players have with online casinos. This is very important when solving consumer issues, as an unbiased party will be able to make a decision that is in the best interest of both parties. This is an important step in online gambling regulation, as it provides the industry as a whole with more clout.
Players will feel safer gambling their money with online casino sites when they know that there is an impartial resolution body available to help deal with any issues that may arise. The establishment of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Group could set a positive example for other online gambling jurisdictions around the world. We are eager to see if this will have an effect on online gambling regulation in other countries.
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