eCOGRA To Certify More Online Casino Operators - 03-14-07

March 14 - Industry standards body and independent watchdog, eCommerce and Online Gambling Regulation and Assurance (eCOGRA), has announced that many more online casinos and poker rooms will be able to apply for certification following changes to its application criteria...

Previously, only operators using software providers certified by eCOGRA were able to apply, but this requirement has been relaxed. eCOGRA made it clear that there will be no reduction in the inspection and monitoring levels required in order to display the important "Play It Safe" seal awarded to operators that comply with strict criteria.
"We've experienced an enormous amount of interest from operators who aren't using our existing members' software, which was previously a pre-requisite to obtaining a seal" says Andrew Beveridge, CEO. "The new arrangements will allow all operators to apply for an eCOGRA seal of approval, at a time when it is vital the industry demonstrates responsibility for player protection and improved operational standards."

From today, eCOGRA will offer operators that use software provided by non-eCOGRA members its certification services. The move will afford many more operators with solid reputations and proven track records the opportunity to obtain an independent and widely respected 3rd party assurance that the players are protected, the games are fair, and the operator behaves responsibly.

Operators will also be able to publish eCOGRA's Total Gaming Transaction Reports for fairness of payout percentages, card-shuffling and RNG behaviour, and will have access to other services, including eCOGRA's Fair Gaming Advocate dispute resolution service, affiliate program reviews, responsible gambling training and external and internal security assessments.

All new operators will be subject to the same detailed on-site testing procedures to ensure compliance with eCOGRA's Generally Accepted Practices, and the seal award will be conditional upon eCOGRA's independent directors' satisfaction that there is full compliance with the requirements.

eCOGRA's recent Global Online Gambler Survey of 11,000 online gamblers showed that the majority of respondents would look for a safety and quality kite mark such as eCOGRA's "Play It Safe" seal before playing on a site, highlighting the need for reassurance that the operator is professional and honest.

About eCOGRA

eCOGRA, the independent standards authority for the online gambling industry, is committed to protecting online casino and poker players around the world. The non-profit organisation addresses the most important issues to players: fast payouts, fair gaming, responsive and efficient service and responsible operator conduct.

Click for a list of eCOGRA casinos and poker rooms.
 

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