The President of the Polish competition authority (UOKiK) is actively monitoring the betting market, focusing on the regulations of bookmakers and the design of their services to identify potential manipulative techniques, known as dark patterns.

UOKiK is investigating whether these companies employ practices that encourage consumers to gamble more frequently or make it difficult for them to withdraw from gambling. Concurrently, the authority is challenging unlawful contractual provisions.

According to UOKiK President Tomasz Chróstny, the betting market involves not only financial stakes but also the financial safety and psychological well-being of consumers. Therefore, companies must ensure that their online services and communication with users are transparent and fair.

The authority is conducting inquiries into major betting companies, including STS, Fortuna Online, Superbet, and others, to determine if they are using dark patterns that could manipulate consumer decisions. This includes analyzing their websites, mobile applications, and user communications, supported by AI tools designed to detect such practices.

Additionally, UOKiK is assessing whether the measures implemented by these companies do not inadvertently encourage gambling or complicate the process of opting out. This includes examining the formalities required to deactivate or close accounts compared to the ease of resuming gambling.

UOKiK is also scrutinizing the contractual terms used by some bookmakers, challenging clauses that may grant excessive freedom to cancel bets, block accounts, or settle winnings. Companies found to be using unlawful provisions could face fines of up to 10% of their turnover.