Swedish regulator issues warning to bingo halls for regulatory violations

(AsiaGameHub) –   A pair of bingo halls were identified as failing to provide mandatory details.

The Swedish gambling authority, Spelinspektionen, has notified the Swedish Bingo Association regarding information gaps at two locations. These violations were discovered at Idrottens Bingo in Linköping and Bingoringen in Karlskoga during on-site visits conducted last year.

Spelinspektionen explained that its agents visited the sites to evaluate how operators adhere to transparency regulations. These mandates dictate that contact information for the licensee and responsible gambling resources must be easily accessible, alongside the prize structure and minimum age requirements.

At Idrottens Bingo, the authority noted the absence of the operator’s email address and details regarding beneficiaries. While the jackpot amount was visible, specific information on line prizes for various games was missing. Although staff provided a booklet upon request and the data was accessible via QR codes or terminals, it was not openly displayed.

Spelinspektionen emphasized that disclosing beneficiaries ensures players understand who receives the game’s proceeds. “It is crucial for participants to know that their play provides financial backing to specific beneficiaries. Similarly, the prize structure must be posted within the venue so players can make informed decisions about participating,” the authority stated.

The regulator determined that providing digital-only access to the prize structure through terminals or QR codes was insufficient.

Regarding BingoRingen Karlskoga, the inspection revealed that the licensee’s email, phone number, and beneficiary information were not available on-site.

Additionally, Spelinspektionen has cautioned all Swedish gambling operators to report changes in board membership, management, or ownership within 14 days. Any updates regarding official representatives must also be submitted.

The authority highlighted that preparations for the Gambling Act indicated that suitability standards could be bypassed if personnel are changed immediately after a license is granted. Consequently, it is vital to monitor any shifts in key personnel. “We perform frequent audits to ensure the Gambling Act’s stipulations are being met,” the regulator added.