The April 2023 amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 introduced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) focus on regulating online gaming, especially games involving real money. Here's a simplified overview of the key changes:
1. Classification and Regulation:
● Online Games and Online Gaming Intermediaries: Defined as games accessible via the internet and platforms facilitating access to these games.
● Permissible Games: Online games are categorized into permissible ones, which include both real money games and others, verified by self-regulatory bodies.
2. Self-Regulatory Structure:
● Verification by Self-Regulatory Bodies: Only online real money games verified by these bodies are allowed.
● Duties of Online Gaming Intermediaries (OGIs): Required to implement due diligence, content monitoring, and user protection measures.
3. Content and Advertisement Restrictions:
● Prohibited Content: Content that involves gambling or causes user harm is banned.
● Advertising Restrictions: Advertisements for non-permissible games and platforms offering such games are restricted.
4. Operational Requirements:
● Policy Updates: OGIs must update users about changes in platform policies within 24 hours.
● User Verification and Safety: Inclusion of policies for user verification, transaction security, and mechanisms to prevent user harm.
●Immediate Compliance on Government Requests: Information requested by the government must be provided within 24 hours if related to permissible online real money games.
5. Grievance Redressal and Compliance:
● Grievance Mechanisms: OGIs must have a system in place for complaint receipt and tracking.
● Verification Marks: A visible mark of verification for online games by a self-regulatory body must be displayed.
6. Transition and Applicability:
● Grace Period: The new rules will come into force 3 months after at least three self-regulatory bodies are designated by MEITY unless specified otherwise.
These amendments aim to create a more regulated and safe environment for online gaming in India, enhancing protections for users and ensuring responsible gaming practices.
SRIRAM's
Share:
Get a call back
Fill the below form to get free counselling for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation
