Tabcorp Fined over US$2.6M for Breaching Spam Laws in VIP Customer Campaign
Summary
Tabcorp Holdings Limited has been slapped with a hefty AU$4 million ($2.61 million) fine by Australia’s communications watchdog, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). The penalty follows their unauthorised and non-compliant marketing practices targeting VIP customers. Between February and May 2024, the company sent over 5,700 SMS and WhatsApp messages, many of which breached the Spam Act 2003.
Key Points
- Tabcorp received a fine after ACMA found serious breaches in their marketing to VIP program members.
- A significant number of these messages failed to provide opt-out options or clear sender identification.
- The violations included sending messages without prior consent from customers.
- This marks the first enforcement action by ACMA against a VIP gambling program for spam breaches.
- Tabcorp must now improve its marketing practices under a court-enforceable undertaking.
Why should I read this?
If you’re in the gaming industry or just interested in how companies handle marketing compliance, this article is essential reading. It highlights the growing scrutiny on gambling operators and the consequences of neglecting regulatory obligations. Tabcorp’s hefty fine serves as a stern warning to others about the importance of adhering to spam regulations, especially in targeted marketing campaigns.
