UKGC suspends Wyke Gaming licence over player protection breaches

The decision to suspend Wyke Gaming & Amusement Centre has been made with immediate effect, as the UKGC takes player protection seriously, alongside ensuring that all operators adhere to their regulatory guidelines regarding responsible gambling practices.

A refusal in self-exclusion leads to the UKGC taking swift action

This crackdown by the Gambling Commission has occurred following Wyke’s refusal to participate in the nationwide MOSES scheme.

This Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion initiative brings a strong focus that allows players to voluntarily block themselves from accessing a number of adult gaming centres in their area if they’re struggling with gambling-related issues.

By opting out, Wyke Gaming has not only breached its licensing terms but also failed to support players who may be at risk. Therefore, the venue will not be permitted to reopen its doors until it can demonstrate compliance and operate under the correct conditions.

The Gambling Commission has stated that its intervention was necessary and that non-compliance will not be tolerated under any circumstances:

“Operators that fail to meet their duties to protect players and comply with the law will face consequences. Our focus is, and always will be, on safeguarding the public.”

Illegal use of high-stakes machines

Further investigation revealed Wyke Gaming was operating more high-stakes Category B machines than legally allowed. Under UK law, these machines must not exceed 20% of a venue’s total gaming devices.

This means that the machines that were in use at Wyke’s allowed much higher payouts and stakes, as it breaches a concrete rule in section 172(1) of the UK Gambling Act, which states that Category B machines must not exceed 20% of the total number of gaming machines at a gaming establishment.

This was designed as a safeguard, and by ignoring this, Wyke Gaming has failed to provide a safe space for its customers to play in.

Complaint and dispute processes neglected

Another mistake that Wyke has made is failing to establish a formal complaints procedure.

Under UK gambling law, this is non-negotiable, as operators must use an approved Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service. They act as a mediator and neutral third party to ensure that all issues can be solved in a fair and timely manner.

Wyke Gaming’s failure has left customers feeling that their trust has been broken, further exacerbating concerns surrounding the lack of regulatory safeguards and consumer protection.

The ultimate cost of non-compliance in UK gambling

Wyke Gaming’s suspension is not the only recent incident, as Spreadex Limited was fined £2,000,000 for failing to protect players in the areas of money laundering and social responsibility.

Both of these examples demonstrate that the UKGC is swiftly addressing these failures and shortcomings to ensure that other operators are aware, on no uncertain terms, that player protection isn’t optional — it’s mandatory.

Any breach of their regulations will result in severe consequences.