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William Hill advert linked wagering to sexual success

15 May 2019

An advert for a betting firm seen on the yohaig code dating app Tinder has actually been banned for connecting gambling to sexual success.

The ad for William Hill, which was sent as a message to users, read: "Stuck in the buddy zone? You will not be for much longer if you utilize this promotion code Cheltenham [horse racing] totally free bet bet9ja's welcome offer."
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It was followed by a link to download the William Hill app.

But the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said it needs to not appear once again in its present type.

It stated that, according to marketing guidelines, betting advertisements need to not connect betting to "seduction, sexual success or boosted appearance".
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"We considered that the text ... suggested that those who gambled would be more most likely to develop a relationship into a sexual relationship and therefore linked betting with sexual success," it stated.

William Hill initially safeguarded the March advert after a consumer grumbled.

The firm stated consumers who registered would "participate in a relationship with William Hill", and the advert was expected to relate this to the nature of the organization they were promoting on - Tinder.

It stated it was not its intention to connect gambling to sexual success.

However, upon reflection it concurred the ad could have been misinterpreted and took it down willingly.

William Hill stated: "We take on board what the ASA have stated about this promotion code specific advert and have eliminated it from blood circulation."

Tinder meanwhile stated it had reviewed the ad before publishing it, it was not socially reckless, offending or targeting minors.

'Speechless'
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Campaigners have been requiring harder regulation of gambling advertising.
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One, the Bishop of St Albans, Dr Alan Smith, stated he was "left speechless" by advertisements like William Hill's.

"The betting industry's technique to self-regulation appears farcical as more of these adverts are exposed. I fear some wagering firms are now operating under a 'don't get captured' mentality.

"The ASA's robust action ought to be a wake-up call to the market."
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'Gambling ads will hush cautions'

21 February 2019

Labour seeks restriction on betting advertisements throughout occasions

20 September 2018
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