UK Advertising Watchdog Flags Misleading Betway Free Bet Promotion

The United Kingdom’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) ruled in favor of a customer who reported a deceptive complimentary wager promotion on the Betway platform. The advertisement, displayed earlier this year, proclaimed a “Free Bet Offer: £30 Free Bet” for soccer wagers.

The problem? The promotion failed to explicitly mention that a personal deposit was required to receive the complimentary £30 bet. Betway acknowledged the grievance but maintained that the complete terms and conditions, accessible separately, clarified this requirement.

Nevertheless, they have since revised the advertisement to unequivocally convey that it is a matched bet promotion. They have also pledged to exercise greater caution in the future.

Essentially, the ASA stated that promoting a “£30 Free Bet” without prominently disclosing the matching stipulation is akin to misleading consumers. They deemed this a significant oversight, as it could substantially influence a person’s choice to accept the offer.

The ASA determined that the advertisement, in its misleading format, cannot be displayed again. They also leveraged this instance to remind Betway (and consequently, other wagering firms) that upcoming advertisements for complimentary bets must transparently state whether patrons need to make a deposit to activate the offer.

The UKs advertising watchdog is happy that the betting company has consented to modify its promotional materials.