Online Casino Gambling Gripes of 2009

Figures just out show the value of advocacy in the gambling arena and highlight the role of mediation in the resolution of disputes.

eCOGRA is the online fair and responsible gaming advocate that works with players, operators and affiliates. In a statement this week, Tex Rees, the eCOGRA Fair Gaming Advocate, announced that almost 50 percent of the disputes she mediated were resolved in favor of the player.

The Nitty Gritty
Rees' figures cover the 141 online gambling websites accredited and monitored by the independent organisation. The relatively low number of disputes stemming from endorsed online casinos demonstrates the benefits of playing at eCOGRA's approved sites. Rees commented that there were "an average of 0.37 issues per site per month, a minute increase over the 2008 number of 0.36. That remains an industry-leading disputes statistic by any standards."

2009 saw a 10% increase in disputes compared to the previous year, although this same figure relates to complaints about non-eCOGRA approved operators. The main issues under dispute were cash-ins (46%), bonuses (22%) and locked accounts (19%). Of the issues mediated, 48% favored the player.

A Key Industry Role
eCOGRA has build up extremely positive relationships within the industry and is well placed to act as an intermediary. Says Rees, "Once again I found operators quick to respond and fully cooperative in addressing the mediated disputes."

eCOGRA are a London-based player protection and standards organisation that provides an international framework for best operational practice requirements, which are enforced through inspections and reviews, and continuous monitoring.

OCR Honored!
Earlier this month Online Casino Reports were proud to receive the eCOGRA Reputable Portal seal, endorsing the site's quality content and commitment to fair play and customer service.