The ACMA has fined Betfair AU$871,660 (US$563,650) for sending messages to VIP players without their permission. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
Betfair will have to pay an AU$871,660 (US$563,650) fine in Australia after violating the country’s spam laws. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) discovered that the operator had sent 148 text messages and emails last year to VIP players who either withdrew their communication permissions or didn’t give them in the first place.
incentives to VIP players, such as free tickets to events and boosts to their deposits
These marketing messages offered incentives to VIP players, such as free tickets to events and boosts to their deposits. Six text messages didn’t contain an option to unsubscribe.
ACMA Member Samantha Yorke remarked that just because someone is a VIP customer doesn’t mean they can afford their losses or are wealthy. She said that Betfair’s behavior in sending messages to these individuals is “incredibly irresponsible in addition to being non-compliant.”
In addition to paying the financial penalty, Betfair will also need to undergo an independent review of its marketing policies and take on board suggested changes. It also has to provide additional training to staff members on the topic and provide regular updates to the ACMA.
The ACMA has issued AU$16.6m in spam-related penalties to companies over the past 18 months.
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