Stars and GamCare

In the present moral climate responsible gaming is highly important for online poker operators, and one of the biggest in making all the right noises in the industry’s constant battle for wider social acceptance.

PokerStars has obtained official certification from GamCare UK in recognition of its efforts to promote responsible gaming.

"In achieving GamCare Certification, PokerStars have attained the highest standards in player protection and have demonstrated that they genuinely recognise the need to assist their customers in playing responsibly,” said Andrew Poole, Head of Online Services at GamCare UK.

“We look forward to working with PokerStars in the future and in continuing to share their commitment to responsible gambling."

GamCare is a registered charity and the leading authority on the provision of information, advice and practical help in addressing the social impact of gambling in the UK.

In order to obtain certification, PokerStars had to demonstrate that it operates a number of key features, including:

Age Verification – assuring that all UK players who play on PokerStars are of legal age.

Self Exclusion Program – this allows players to prevent themselves from playing should they wish. Players can choose to suspend their play for anything from a 24-hour cool down period to 180+ days.

Deposit Limits – PokerStars, which has well established deposit limits for new players, also allows players to set their own, smaller deposit limits should they prefer. For example, a player can set their weekly deposit limit to $10.

“The folks at GamCare have had a tremendous impact in helping us to achieve our goal of being a socially responsible online poker site, “ said Jeanne David, the Responsible Gaming Manager at PokerStars.

David holds a Masters Degree in Social Work, and spent 13 years as the director of the largest substance abuse/addiction programme in New York City. She is also a keen poker player who, through her hobby and her work, has a profound understanding of gaming related issues.

“GamCare’s attitude is the same as ours – that poker is an enjoyable experience if played for fun and entertainment,” said David. “They also recognize that a small percentage of those players allow poker to control their lives, and GamCare is committed to assisting those people to obtain counseling services where necessary.”