The roadmap by the Commission entitled ‘Towards a comprehensive European framework for online gambling’ was the first step prior to the adoption of a resolution by the European Parliament towards legislative harmonization and improved co-operation between Member States within the online gambling sector. The aim stands towards increasing consumer protection even through online transactions particularly where minors are concerned together with gambling addiction problems and the prevention of cyber crimes including fraud and money laundering.
Having more than 7,000 people directly or indirectly employed in the online gaming sector, the adoption of a resolution on online gambling stands as the key towards an effective address of the fundamental legal aspects namely, consumer protection as well as money laundering. The resolution complements the roadmap entitled ‘Towards a comprehensive European framework for online gambling’ proposed by the European Commission’ whereby strong consumer protection measures will be embraced and cooperation between Member States be enhanced to reach the goal.
Adhering to the principle of subsidiarity, the Commission together with the Member States endeavours to introduce uniform common systems for electronic identification both to prevent minors from accessing online gambling websites as well as preclude persons to acquire multiple accounts concurrently. The Chamber of Commerce maintained that the resolution is beneficial for the prevention of any form of cyber criminal activity to achieve a higher level of consumer protection and secure the right to privacy. As a result, it further added that infringement proceedings against Member States shall be endorsed in default of compliance with EU law.
