Responsible Online Gaming Association Releases VIP Sports Betting Guidelines

by Amelia Walker, June 06, 2025

The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) has released new guidelines for responsible gaming in VIP programs within the sports betting industry. Operators have agreed to adopt the guidelines in a timely manner.

Basis for New Guidelines

ROGA has released a set of evidence-based recommended guidelines to strengthen responsible gaming policies within operator VIP programs. These measures come as a response to concerns from users and experts regarding the potential risks associated with sports betting VIP programs.

ROGA consists of eight members, Bally’s, BetMGM, bet365, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel, Hard Rock Digital, and PENN Entertainment. These companies have committed to incorporating the new guidelines into their VIP host programs within a reasonable timeframe.

The new ROGA guidelines are based on existing research to help and support players in maintaining a balanced gaming experience that stays within their personal limits.

“Like in many sectors of entertainment, leisure, and hospitality, sportsbook’s VIP programs aim to reward and retain loyal players, and it is essential that these programs are operated with a strong commitment to responsible gaming.”

-Dr. Jennifer Shatley, ROGA Executive Director

She also stated that these programs should promote and encourage a shared understanding between hosts and players about the value of responsible gaming, which fosters long-term loyalty and player well-being.

Recommendations

ROGA recommends the following practices for VIP programs. They have pointed out that some operators have already implemented a few of them.

• Training for VIP Hosts: Offer ongoing, role-specific training personalized to the unique responsibilities and challenges faced by VIP hosts.
• Automated Behavioral Monitoring: Using technology to identify potentially risky behaviors among VIP players, such as sudden increases in deposits or prolonged play.
• Structured Escalation Protocols: Establish a clear process for escalating VIP players showing signs of problematic gambling to responsible gaming specialists for further assessment.
• Responsible Gaming Messaging: Integrate responsible gaming messaging into all VIP interactions in different ways.
• VIP Engagement Protocols: Implement standards for VIP host-player interactions that focus on transparency, support, and responsible gaming practices.
• Bonuses and Incentives: Prohibit promotional offers to VIP customers who are self-excluded, on a cool-off period, suspended, or banned. Ensure players can easily opt out of offers.
• Access to Player Data: Offer VIP players transparent access to their own play history and account activity.
• Confirmation of RG Tool Awareness: Require VIP players to acknowledge their understanding of available responsible gaming tools during the onboarding process.
• Responsible Gambling Education: Provide VIP players with regular educational materials on responsible gambling.
• Program Reviews: Conduct reviews of the VIP programs once a year. Get feedback from both hosts and players.
• Continuous Improvement: Operators should stay informed and incorporate the latest developments in responsible gaming tools and best practices.

This initiative is part of a wider strategy to keep players safe. Earlier in the year, ROGA together with EPIC Global Solutions, Kindbridge Behavioral Health, and the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) launched the Know Your Play campaign. This initiative provides college-aged students with information on responsible gaming, mental health and wellness, and financial literacy.