Online Competition Standards Authority (OCSA)
Raising fairness, transparency and integrity across UK online prize-draw competitions
Including skill-based competitions and chance-based free draws under UK law.
OCSA — Higher Standards, Earlier Discipline
The Online Competition Standards Authority (OCSA) exists to raise standards in the UK prize-draw sector at a time when expectations are changing faster than behaviour.
OCSA standards are intentionally more demanding than the UK Government’s DCMS Voluntary Code of Good Practice. They are designed to require earlier discipline, clearer disclosure, stronger consumer protections, and meaningful evidence of implementation — not last-minute box-ticking.
Operators who meet OCSA standards should therefore have a high degree of confidence that their practices are aligned with DCMS expectations, provided their declared scope is accurate and maintained.
OCSA certification does not provide regulatory approval or legal certification. Instead, it provides an independent, structured assessment of transparency, evidence, and documented decision-making — allowing operators to demonstrate seriousness, preparedness, and accountability during the DCMS transition period.
In a sector that has relied too long on ambiguity and tolerance, OCSA exists to make standards explicit — and inaction visible.
Fairness
We establish clear, consistent and responsible standards for online prize draws.
Transparency
We require prize-draw operators to present complete, honest and accessible information.
Integrity
We ensure compliance, accountability and public trust in the prize-draw sector.
OCSA Certification Levels
Progressive standards for responsible operators
✔ Certified — baseline compliance
✔ Silver — enhanced operational standards
✔ Gold — highest level of trust and excellence
Know Your Rights
What every competition entrant should expect
✔ Clear information
✔ Real free entry routes
✔ Fair, transparent draws
✔ Honest advertising
✔ Accurate prize descriptions
Report a Concern
Help us maintain fairness and integrity
✔ Misleading advertising
✔ Unfair draws
✔ Hidden terms
✔ Incorrect prize descriptions
✔ Misuse of the OCSA badge
Operator Standards & Compliance
The rules, safeguards and certification requirements for online prize-draw operators.
OCSA Code of Practice
The mandatory requirements all OCSA certified operators must follow
✔ Accurate prize descriptions
✔ Transparent entry terms
✔ Fair, unbiased draw procedures
✔ Responsible marketing standards
OCSA Enhanced Standards (Silver & Gold)
Advanced operational criteria for higher-level certification
✔ Increased operational controls
✔ Independent compliance checks
✔ Stronger integrity guards
✔ Enhanced player protection
Player Protection & Safety
Ensuring competitions operate responsibly and safely
✔ Under-18 safeguards
✔ Real, accessible free-entry routes
✔ Clear dispute-handling processes
✔ Signposting to support services
OCSA does not regulate online gambling
The Online Competition Standards Authority (OCSA) provides standards, guidance and voluntary certification for online prize-draw competitions only.
We do not regulate or oversee:
online gambling
casino or slots websites
betting or sportsbooks
bingo sites
instant win gambling
National Lottery products
lotteries, raffles, or any games requiring a gambling licence
Gambling regulation in the United Kingdom is carried out by:
The Gambling Commission — www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk
If you have arrived here with a concern related to a gambling product or licensed operator, please contact the Gambling Commission directly.
Prize-Draw Competitions (not gambling)
Prize draw competitions fall outside the definition of gambling when the winner is selected randomly, and entrants have a free route of entry.
OCSA supports responsible operators who comply with UK consumer law, UK advertising standards, the UK government’s Voluntary Code of Good Practice for Prize Draws (2025), and the OCSA Code of Good Practice.
About the Online Competition Standards Authority
The Online Competition Standards Authority (OCSA) is an independent standards body for the UK’s online prize-draw sector.
We promote transparency, fairness, and participant protection through clear standards, voluntary certification, and independent oversight.
Our mission is to raise industry standards and support responsible, open practice across the sector, in alignment with the direction of UK policy and regulation. OCSA does not currently act as a trade body or lobbying organisation.