Swiss Casinos Introduce a Code of Conduct for Player Protection

Comprehensive Measures to Safeguard Players

The new initiative follows the Swiss government’s granting of casino licenses with the expectation of responsible operations. As part of the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of players, the casinos have pledged to implement effective safeguards that go beyond the legal requirements.

The Swiss casino industry has long acknowledged its responsibility to protect players from gambling-related harm. The newly adopted code of conduct is a direct response to growing calls for stronger protection. It outlines measures to identify at-risk individuals early, offer support to those struggling with addiction, and set standards for advertising gambling services.

Key Provisions of the Code

The new code includes nine critical measures aimed at safeguarding players:

1. Training: Casinos will employ dedicated staff trained specifically in player protection. All staff members with guest contact will receive ongoing training to recognize at-risk players.

2. Early Detection: Casinos will establish criteria to identify vulnerable players early, using both traditional and online methods. They will invest in technology and expert research to improve detection systems.

3. Investigation: When necessary, casinos will assess the financial situation of at-risk players, considering documents like salary slips and bank statements. The goal is to intervene appropriately while respecting privacy.

4. Gambling Bans: Players who gamble beyond their means or show signs of addiction will be banned from casinos. Bans apply across all Swiss casinos, and individuals can also voluntarily self-exclude.

5. Youth Protection: Underage individuals are strictly prohibited from gambling. Additional measures will protect young adults who are more vulnerable to financial harm due to gambling.

6. Restrained Advertising: Swiss casinos will avoid advertising before 10:00 PM and include a “Play Responsibly” message in online ads. Aggressive advertising will be limited to illegal operators.

7. Effectiveness Review: The effectiveness of player protection measures will be regularly reviewed and updated, with input from addiction experts and industry professionals.

8. Information: Casinos will provide information on gambling risks and support services through the website www.spielerschutz.ch and offer guidance in person at casino locations.

9. Binding Agreement: The code is mandatory for all licensed casinos in Switzerland, ensuring a unified approach to player protection across the industry.

A Clear Stand Against Illegal Operators

With the new player protection code, Swiss casinos are clearly distinguishing themselves from illegal, unregulated operators. Many of these illegal operators fail to provide adequate protections for their customers. Swiss casinos aim to tackle this by providing a safe, legally compliant alternative.

Dr. Gerhard Pfister, President of the Swiss Casino Association, said:

“The casinos have decades of experience in player protection. With this code, they highlight the key measures, particularly staff training, restrained advertising, and youth protection. In doing so, they clearly differentiate themselves from illegal operators who do not provide player protection and do not contribute to the social security system (AHV).”

The Swiss Casino Association is committed to enforcing the code. It will work with authorities to combat illegal gambling. This comes at a time when concerns over the rise of illegal online casinos are growing in Switzerland. These illegal casinos do not contribute to the country’s social security system, nor do they adhere to responsible gambling regulations.