Purpose
The Gibraltar Gambling Commission (GGC) seeks to ensure that Gibraltar-based gambling services are operated by companies it considers legitimate and reputable. To obtain a gaming licence, an online casino must meet set requirements, including clear ownership, sufficient financial resources and the ability to provide services with integrity.
The Gibraltar Gambling Commission can grant licences to qualifying operators and may revoke them if an operator violates its licence conditions.
Gambling Products
The Gambling Act identifies regulated products such as betting, bookmaking, lotteries and gaming. Gaming licences are required for products including bingo, machine gaming, slots, poker and various types of casino games. The source describes casinos licensed by the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner as offering downloadable, instant-play and mobile gaming.
Age Restrictions
Gibraltar Gambling Commission licensees must enforce age limits at their online casinos. Players must meet the legal gambling age where they live, which is 18 in most countries. Those who meet the applicable age requirement may sign up at an online casino and place real-money bets.
Fair Gaming
When reviewing a gaming licence application, the GGC considers whether an online casino provides fair, transparent play. Online blackjack, roulette, slots and other casino games use random number generators (RNGs), which are intended to keep software providers and casinos from influencing results. The GGC describes RNG results as “totally random”; this is a claim, not a guarantee established here. It also publishes a list of independent testing agencies whose certifications it accepts.
Customer Privacy
Gibraltar Gambling Commission licence conditions require casinos to collect certain information from prospective customers, including their full name, date of birth and home address. Once the information is collected, the licensee decides whether to accept the person as a registered player.
The GGC requires online casinos to comply with the Data Protection Act to protect customer information. The Data Protection Act 2004 addresses safeguards and procedures for personal information and privacy. Casinos must also show that they can protect their websites from cyberattacks and similar threats.
Separate Funds
As part of licensing, an online casino must demonstrate to the Gibraltar Gambling Commission that operating expenses are kept apart from player funds. The separation is intended to leave money available for customer deposits and potential winnings if the casino becomes insolvent. The GGC does not set detailed payout rules; licensees are expected to honour their customer agreements.
Responsible Gaming
To retain a GGC licence, an online casino must include a homepage link to at least one organization that assists people affected by gambling problems.
Casinos should let customers exclude themselves from gambling, either through a direct option or by submitting a request. Their websites should also caution customers against betting more than they can afford.
Complaints
For a dispute with a GGC-licensed online casino, Al Buraq Regina recommends contacting the operator first. If the issue remains unresolved, a complaint can be submitted to the GGC; the Gibraltar government website explains how. Complaints are handled fairly and as quickly as possible.
Licensed Casinos
The Gibraltar Gambling Commission says its role is to protect players’ interests and help maintain a secure environment for casino gaming.
Redbet Casino, Virgin Games, Total Gold and 888 Casino are cited as examples of established casinos with GGC licences. These operators are subject to GGC rules intended to promote fair and enjoyable play.
