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Rank Group, which operators the Mecca and Grosvenor Casino online gaming brands in the UK, is to begin trialling an affordability check for online gambling, which has been launched by data company Experian.

The affordability check can be made at the most appropriate point for customers, said Experian, such as when there is a change in their account behaviour or specific behaviour may indicate an increased risk.

A customer must first give their permission but once they have done so, the Open Banking service from Experian will enable operators to understand a player’s income and expenditure – and how much they spend with other gambling websites. Gaming operators may also work with specific customers to set spend limits.

After approval from the UK Financial Conduct Authority, Experian can – with customer consent – use current account information to help organisations understand which products and services will be most suitable.

The Rank Group will embark upon a proof-of-concept trial of the service, which will begin “in the next few weeks”.

Tom Blacksell, managing director of B2B at Experian, said: “Innovative Open Banking services can help the gaming industry to protect its customers from problem gambling. People who choose to share data can prove they are gambling at a level they can afford, while gaming companies can meet their responsibilities to keep customers safe.

“Experian is already in discussions with a handful of the biggest gaming companies in the UK, who can see the importance of this affordability check. It is one of many new services we are working on to bring the benefits of data sharing to businesses and their customers.”

Rory Howard, director of customer diligence at Rank, said: “Rank Group welcomes this initiative. It’s a fantastic opportunity for gaming organisations to work collaboratively with an organisation such as Experian which is licensed to use Open Banking. The automated exchange of data in association with advanced analytics will enable us to help our customers gamble within their means.”