New Russian Law Enables Self-Exclusion for Problem Gamblers

Introduction of a Nationwide Self-Exclusion Registry

Russia has introduced legislation allowing individuals struggling with gambling addiction to voluntarily enroll in a nationwide self-exclusion registry. This initiative goes beyond just banning access to casinos and betting shops; it also imposes stricter regulations on gambling advertising to protect vulnerable players.

Details of the Self-Exclusion Program

Participants in the program can choose how long they wish to abstain from gambling, with a minimum commitment of 12 months that cannot be shortened. The gambling regulatory authority reviews these applications and shares the list of registered individuals with all licensed gambling operators throughout Russia.

Once enrolled, individuals are barred from placing bets with bookmakers, as well as from entering licensed casinos and slot machine venues. The system is integrated with Gosuslugi, Russia’s Unified Portal of State and Municipal Services, making it accessible to people nationwide.

Additionally, registered self-excluded individuals must not receive any promotional content or advertising from gambling companies. Gambling establishments are required to clearly display information about the self-exclusion program on-site. Online operators must provide straightforward explanations and links to the service on their websites to ensure customers know how to register. Licensed operators are mandated to check the registry before accepting bets to prevent service to those who have opted in.

Additional Provisions in the New Legislation

The law, which has been under development for several months and passed Russia’s parliament in the summer, also includes measures to tackle illegal online gambling. Authorities will work to block unlicensed websites and restrict financial transactions related to such platforms, focusing especially on cryptocurrency transactions due to their frequent use in evading regulations.

Cryptocurrency has often been linked to controversies within the gambling sector, sometimes leading to legal disputes involving operators, regulators, crypto service providers, and users. For context, notable legal actions have been taken in other countries to protect gambling offerings involving cryptocurrencies.

Official Perspectives and Enforcement Plans

Maxim Topilin, chair of the State Duma’s Committee on Economic Policy, emphasized that the law represents an essential resource for people battling gambling addiction and their families, enabling better control over gambling activities.

The Ministry of Health in Russia has noted that thousands seek professional help for gambling problems each year, which validates the strengthened restrictions on gambling advertising and access alongside the self-exclusion program. Further enforcement measures under consideration include fines up to $360 for staff who allow excluded individuals to gamble and penalties up to $1,200 for the companies employing such staff.