In a major regulatory change, the UK Gambling Commission has introduced a ban on the “Bonus Buy” feature in online slot games as of September 2024. The feature, which allows players to skip directly to a game’s bonus round by paying an additional fee, has been identified as contributing to high-risk gambling behavior.
The decision to ban the Bonus Buy feature is part of ongoing efforts to reduce problem gambling in the UK and promote a safer gambling environment. By removing this option, regulators aim to curb excessive spending and reduce the immediate appeal of high-stakes bonus rounds, which often lead to significant financial losses for players.
This new regulation comes after increased scrutiny from both regulators and public health advocates who highlighted the potential dangers of fast-tracked gambling experiences. It reflects the industry’s commitment to tightening its responsible gambling practices in response to growing concerns about the potential harms of such features.
Operators are now required to comply with the ban, and many have already begun adjusting their game offerings to align with the new standards, ensuring a safer online gambling experience for UK players.
