GCash tightens KYC rules, to remove access to online gambling on payment app

• Photo credit to GCash

By Art Samaniego

Mobile wallet giant GCash on Thursday, August 14, said it will fully comply with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) directive ordering payment service providers to remove all links and icons connecting their platforms to online gambling sites.

Ahead of this directive, GCash said it had already implemented stricter Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures for accounts linked to gaming applications, as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure the safe and responsible use of its services.

In a statement, GCash affirmed its support for the BSP’s initiative, describing it as a proactive step to promote responsible use of digital financial services and safeguard the welfare of Filipinos.

“GCash will fully comply with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) proactive directive to remove links and icons that connect payment apps to online gambling platforms,”the company said.

“We share the BSP’s commitment to ensuring that digital financial services are used responsibly and in ways that protect the welfare of Filipinos,” it added.

The e-wallet provider assured the public that once it receives the official directive, it will “immediately enforce the necessary changes” to ensure full compliance with BSP rules and enhance user protection.

GCash also clarified that its core financial services — such as money transfers, bills payment, online shopping transactions, and other legitimate payment services — remain fully operational and unaffected by the directive.

The BSP earlier gave e-wallet firms, including GCash and Maya, 48 hours to remove direct access to online gambling platforms. The move comes amid growing concerns over the accessibility of online betting through mobile payment apps, which critics say has fueled gambling addiction and financial losses among users.

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