The online gaming industry has witnessed exponential growth in recent years, with millions of users engaging in various forms of online gaming. To ensure that online gaming platforms operate with greater accountability and promote responsible and ethical practices, the Government of India has recently made significant amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. These amended rules are in consultation with various stakeholders such as parents, school teachers, academics, students, online gamers and gaming industry associations, child rights bodies, educationists, psychology or mental health experts, ICT experts, etc.
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Online Gaming Rules |
This article contains the following topics:
- Verification of an online game by Self Regulatory Bodies
- Proper Due Diligence of a user and an online gaming platform
- KYC of users for gambling games and 100% transparency
- Grievance Redressal Mechanism
- Effects of these amended rules on the online gaming industry
- Conclusion
Verification of an online game by Self Regulatory Bodies
One important change in the amended rules is the verification of online games by a self-regulatory body/bodies designated by the Central Government. These bodies will ascertain the facts relating to the game and after approval, these games will be published for users. It is also mandatory for these games to not host advertisements of a not verified online game by any means.
Proper Due Diligence of online gaming platform
One of the key changes in the amended rules is the requirement for online gaming platforms to implement stronger due diligence measures. This includes verifying the age of users (18 years) to prevent minors from engaging in online gambling activities, as well as implementing mechanisms to prevent fraudulent activities such as money laundering and cheating. By mandating these measures, the government aims to protect vulnerable groups, such as minors, from the potential harms of online gaming and promote responsible participation. As minors are more vulnerable to cheating, addiction, and psychological harm these bodies will check every parameter for the betterment of the user.
KYC of users for gambling games and 100% transparency
In games where real money is involved, these rules state that every game has to show a verification mark by the self-regulatory body and guide the users regarding every possible outcome of playing the game such as winning, losing, withdrawing, fees & other charges, and sharing with other third parties. These amendments have clearly stated that there should be 100% transparency with the users.
User-Based Grievance Redressal Mechanism
The creation of a grievance redressal system by online gaming companies is yet another significant component of the modified laws. The goal of this system is to promptly and effectively address user complaints and issues. Users will be able to seek redress if there are any problems with online gaming, such as disagreements, unfair practices, or violations of the terms and conditions. This is regarded as an important step in ensuring user protection and fostering trust in the online gaming industry.
Effects of these amended rules on the online gaming industry
It is important to understand that these amendments are not in the direction to stop the growth of the Indian Gaming Industry or to stop gamers to play online games. These regulations are the government's duty to ensure ethical practices and to safeguard vulnerable gamers so that any monetary or harmful loss may be avoided. On top of that, it is also a check on the illegal activities carried out by several online gaming platforms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, by the Government of India, reflect the government's commitment to promoting responsible and ethical practices in the online gaming industry. These changes mandate stronger due diligence measures, and regulation by Self-regulatory bodies, aiming to ensure greater accountability and transparency in the operations of online gaming platforms. It remains to be seen how these amendments will be implemented and their impact on the online gaming landscape in India, but they are seen as a positive step towards building a safer and more responsible online gaming ecosystem.
