Gaming Federations Adopt Code of Ethics

Three online gaming industry federations have jointly signed a Code of Ethics to promote user safety and encourage responsible gaming practices across the industry.

The All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), E-Gaming Federation (EGF) and the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS) issued a joint statement on March 10 in this regard. Only last month, these federations entered into an MoU with the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) to address the growing concerns over illegal betting and gambling advertisements of offshore entities.[1]

The new Code is similar to the one adopted in December 2023[2]; however, any non-compliance can now result in actions against the members.

Key provisions include:

• Applicability: The CoE will apply to all skill-based gaming operators who are members of the AIGF, EGF, and FIFS.
• Enforcement timeline: Operators with an annual revenue of Rs. 100 crore and higher must ensure implementation within six months, while those with annual revenue below Rs. 100 crore will have nine months to comply.
• User safety standards: The CoE emphasises the enforcement of consistent user safety standards across the industry through the adoption of responsible gaming and advertising policies.
• Annual third-party audits: The certification issued to member companies will be valid for one year and can be renewed after a third-party audit.
• Comprehensive reporting: The implementation of robust reporting mechanisms is required for continuous monitoring and ensuring industry compliance.
• Age-gating: Mandatory age-gating measures will be implemented to prevent underage users from accessing gaming platforms that offer formats involving real money prizes or awards.
• KYC: Stringent KYC procedures will be enforced to ensure proper identification and verification of users.
• User spending limits: Platforms must allow users to set spending limits, promoting responsible financial engagement.
• Self-exclusion: A mechanism for self-exclusion will be implemented, allowing users to voluntarily restrict their access to gaming platforms.
• Operational restrictions: Operations will not be allowed in states where real money games are not permitted, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
• Management of player funds: Proper management and safeguarding of player funds will be ensured to maintain financial integrity.
• Integrity and fairness in gameplay: Measures will be implemented to ensure that all games maintain fairness and integrity, preventing manipulation or unfair advantages.

[1] https://www.ascionline.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ASCI_OnlineGaming_Partnership_ConsumerProtection.pdf

[2] https://fifs.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Voluntary-Code-of-Ethics-for-Online-Gaming-Intermediariess.pdf