Certification Decisions & Oversight

How OCSA makes and maintains certification decisions

The Online Competition Standards Authority (OCSA) operates an evidence-based certification framework. Certification decisions are made independently, consistently, and in accordance with published standards.

Certification is not automatic. Not all applicants will be granted certification, and certification may be suspended or withdrawn where standards are not maintained.

Decision Authority

OCSA certification decisions are made by the OCSA certification authority.

Decisions may be:

  • made directly by the Chair, or

  • delegated to designated reviewers acting on behalf of OCSA

All decisions are taken in accordance with the OCSA Code of Practice and supporting frameworks.

Where a potential conflict of interest exists, the conflicted individual will not participate in the assessment or decision.

Evidence-Based Assessment

Certification decisions are based on documented evidence, which may include:

  • operator terms and conditions

  • competition mechanics and entry routes

  • advertising materials and presentation

  • prize documentation and verification

  • draw procedures and records

  • complaints handling processes

  • consumer protection measures

OCSA may request additional information or clarification where required.

Failure to provide sufficient evidence may result in:

  • deferral of certification, or

  • refusal of certification

Decision Outcomes

Following assessment, one of the following outcomes will apply:

Certification Granted

The operator is assessed as meeting the applicable OCSA standards, including the required level of alignment with the DCMS Voluntary Code of Practice for Prize Draws, and will be listed on the OCSA Certified Operator Register.

Certification Deferred

Further information, changes, or clarification are required before certification can be granted.

Certification Refused

The operator does not meet OCSA standards at the time of assessment.

OCSA is not obliged to publish detailed reasoning for individual certification decisions.

Ongoing Oversight

Certification applies only while standards are maintained.

Certified operators must:

  • continue to comply with OCSA standards, which incorporate and build upon the DCMS Voluntary Code of Practice for Prize Draws

  • notify OCSA of material operational changes

  • respond to reasonable compliance enquiries

OCSA may conduct:

  • routine reviews

  • targeted reviews

  • ad-hoc checks following concerns or reports

Suspension or Withdrawal of Certification

OCSA reserves the right to suspend or withdraw certification where:

  • standards are no longer met

  • misleading or harmful practices are identified

  • material information has been withheld or misrepresented

  • an operator fails to cooperate with reasonable review requests

Where certification is withdrawn, this will be shown on the OCSA register.

Challenges and Clarifications

Operators may request clarification regarding certification decisions.

OCSA will consider such requests in good faith but is not required to reconsider decisions unless new or material evidence is provided.

Certification decisions are final.

Independence and Scope

OCSA is an independent standards body. Certification:

  • does not constitute regulatory approval

  • does not replace statutory or regulatory obligations

  • does not guarantee commercial success or consumer outcomes

OCSA certification signifies alignment with published standards at the time of assessment.

Transparency Commitment

OCSA is committed to:

  • consistent application of standards

  • proportional oversight

  • clear communication of scope and limits

  • protecting consumer trust and industry integrity

Apply for OCSA Certification