Russia has brought a package of gambling safeguards into force, introducing a national self-exclusion system alongside mandatory risk warnings for betting websites and gambling advertising.
From 1 September, individuals can ask to be added to the national register of people who have excluded themselves from gambling.
Applications can be submitted electronically through the Gosuslugi state services portal or through a Multifunctional Centre (MFC).
Applicants must select an exclusion period of at least 12 months. Once an application has been submitted it cannot be withdrawn, while the Unified Gambling Regulator must add the individual to the register within 12 hours of receiving it.
Operators are subsequently prohibited from accepting bets from registered individuals, granting them access to gambling venues or online betting accounts and sending them gambling advertising.
The restrictions cover bookmakers, totalisators, casinos and gaming machine halls.
Separate requirements introduced under Federal Law No. 41-FZ mean bookmakers and totalisators accepting interactive bets must display information about the risks and possible consequences of gambling across at least 7% of the visible area of their website homepage.
The prescribed warning states that gambling does not guarantee winnings and can result in financial losses and gambling addiction. The requirement also applies at entrances to betting premises.
Gambling advertisements must now include warnings that participation can lead to addiction. Radio warnings must last at least three seconds, while television warnings must run for at least five seconds and occupy at least 7% of the frame. Other advertising formats must dedicate at least 7% of their advertising space to the warning.
The measures form part of a broader responsible gambling programme being implemented in Russia. Gambling addiction treatment is also being expanded, while authorities have developed unified treatment guidance and strengthened measures against illegal gambling.
Administrative penalties covering breaches of several self-exclusion obligations also take effect from 1 September, with fines ranging from RUB30,000 ($347.21) to RUB50,000 for officials and RUB300,000 to RUB500,000 for legal entities.
Russia’s Unified Gambling Regulator also outlined new payment, reporting and accounting requirements for targeted gambling contributions to national sports federations and professional leagues, with that framework taking effect from 1 September alongside the wider regulatory changes.
Operators must place information about the self-exclusion process on their websites and display QR codes linking to the Gosuslugi application process at gambling venues
