Families face risk of huge bills from online games during coronavirus lockdown, claims MP

FAMILIES risk running up huge bills from on-line games during the coronavirus lockdown, an MP has claimed.

And he wants tougher rules and better enforcement of existing legislation to protect families from getting into financial trouble.

Midlothian SNP MP Owen Thompson said stronger action was needed to guard against the risks of overspending on online games.

He said: “We already know online gambling addiction is a greater threat while people struggle to cope with the lockdown, but there is a real risk that families may find themselves with hefty bills through online gaming too.”

He welcomed the announcement from the Betting and Gaming Council that radio and TV gambling adverts from their members were being removed during the lockdown. But he said: “This doesn’t go far enough and doesn’t include ads on social media and targeted marketing which seem to have mushroomed since the crisis began.

“It’s a particular worry for children and young people who are a strong market for online games that contain in-app purchases. Items they can buy like ‘loot boxes’ aren’t regulated in the way gambling games are, and yet encourage the same gambling-like behaviour.

“Once people are hooked they may well pay a little to keep on playing or enhance the game, particularly younger players and those more vulnerable to addictive behaviour. While each small transaction won’t break the bank they can build up when more time is spent stuck at home.

“We need tougher rules, and tougher enforcement of existing rules, to tackle this risk and prevent families who may already face financial trouble from getting into debt. Legislation is always playing catch-up and the main platforms like Google and Apple have to take their share of responsibility in keeping people safe too.”

Mr Thompson has tabled a series of written parliamentary questions on the issue and has written to Google and Apple raising concerns.

*GamCare operates the National Gambling HelpLine, providing information, advice and support for anyone affected by problem gambling across Great Britain. Advisers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on Freephone 0808 8020 133 or via web chat at www.gamcare.org.uk.