Kindred Group-owned operator 32Red has refuted a Sunday Times article which suggested the company has access to the Learning Records Service database in the UK.
The original report claimed betting companies were given access to an educational database containing “names, ages and addresses of 28 million children and students,” in “one of the biggest breaches of government data.”
“We are legally required to verify a number of criteria, including the age of people who wish to enjoy our services to ensure that they are over the age of 18. The only information 32Red has access to is confirmation or rejection that the person requesting to open an account with us is over the age of 18, and not specific details about that person.
“83% of all 32Red’s new players in 2019 were over 25 years old and we actively shape our advertising to an older demographic. And since 2018, we have reduced the volume of new 18-24 customers by 15%. For the second consecutive year, we have also reduced promotional activity towards young adults. Promotional spend on players 18-24 years old is now 36% lower than in 2017 and fell 27% vs. 2018.”
The spokesperson continued: “While we understand there is heightened scrutiny on the gambling sector at present, it is vital that reporting remains accurate and based on evidence and facts.
“We welcome an evolving debate on how to ensure gambling remains safe and fun for players and only ever takes place in a regulated environment. 32Red is part of Kindred Group, who set the highest standard for safe, secure and sustainable gambling across all our brands and markets.”
Earlier today, the Betting and Gaming Council also stated that the reports in question are ‘untrue’.
The BGC emphasised: “Media reports that betting companies have access to the Learning Records Service database are untrue. GB Group provides age-verification services to a range of organisations from banks to government agencies and betting companies.
“All betting companies are legally required to verify the age of people who wish to join to ensure that they are over the age of 18, the only information GB Group provides is confirmation or rejection that the applicant is over the age of 18.”
