Testing The UK Gambling Regulator (UKGC) has been thinking for months about how to wean operators from spinning out big punters as much as possible. In some cases, this has had unfortunate consequences. After consulting with the industry, the UKGC has decided to introduce new rules. From Oct. 31 operators will be required to conduct background checks before a punter may receive VIP status. This includes checks on sources of income, type of activity and identity. In addition to this there must be regular checks for cheating. The operators are also responsible for ensuring that the costs of a VIP punter are not excessive, given that gambling is a form of entertainment. And for the new rules to be taken seriously, the operators must have an employee from the top management, who will be personally responsible for the enforcement of order in the VIP segment.