The Malta Gaming Authority has acknowledged the difficult circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, pointing out that it can be particularly distressing to gaming/betting customers and players.

In the light of this, the regulator reminded its licensees that any reference to COVID-19, direct or indirect, in a commercial communication, is strictly in breach of the Commercial Communications Regulations.

“All commercial communications must be socially responsible,” the MGA said in a statement.

It reminded licensees that amongst other requirements, at no point must any commercial communications directly or indirectly:

• encourage antisocial behaviour
• suggest that gaming can be a resolution to social, educational, personal or professional problems
• suggest that gaming can be an alternative to employment
• a solution to financial concerns or a form of financial investment
• portray gaming as socially attractive or
• suggest that solitary gaming is preferable to social gaming