Online Sites Near End of eCOGRA Process

LONDON – (PRESS RELEASE) -- The online gaming independent standards authority eCommerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance (eCOGRA) announced today that a significant number of online casinos and poker rooms are currently nearing the end of the organisation's inspection process and will soon be authorised to display the eCOGRA "Play It Safe" seal.

CEO Andrew Beveridge said it was likely that the eCOGRA Board would award the new seals before the end of the year following the extensive probity, game fairness and systems reviews carried out by third party professional audit and inspection groups.

"Over the past few months we have experienced unprecedented interest in eCOGRA from several important online casinos and poker rooms," Beveridge said. "Judging by the level of firm applications now under review I anticipate very significant increases in the number of seal holders within the next six months."

eCOGRA sets player-sensitive, best practice standards covering every aspect of online casino and poker room operations which are enforced through continuous monitoring and inspections. The non-profit authority offers a fast dispute resolution service to players through its Fair Gaming Advocate and commissions professional surveys and business studies to empower seal venues to improve their efficiency and business practice. Active responsible gaming programs are a feature of eCOGRA sites.

Online gaming venues that commit to and comply with the eCOGRA standards are awarded the now widely recognised "Play It Safe" revocable seal, which assures players of safe, honest and efficient online gaming where it is displayed.

The eCOGRA fair gaming system was recently accepted as effective and credible by the Kahnawake regulatory jurisdiction, and extensive discussions are currently taking place with several other leading national regulators and trade associations.

"I believe the gratifying rise in 'Play It Safe' seal applications, and the general interest in eCOGRA three years on from our launch is indicative of a more responsible and professional approach to this business, especially by the leading companies in the industry," Beveridge said.

"That interest is also reflected in the large number of industry portals now approaching us and asking to be associated with the player protective principles that the seal represents.

"eCOGRA is open to any software provider or associated operator that shares our principles of fair gaming and efficient service to the player and is prepared to be tested and monitored."