The Online Competition Standards Authority (OCSA) is an independent standards and certification body for UK online prize-draw operators. It was founded in response to the DCMS Voluntary Code of Good Practice (2025) and provides auditing, certification and draw integrity services to the sector.

No. OCSA is an independent standards body, not a regulator. It does not have statutory powers. Certification indicates compliance with OCSA standards and alignment with the DCMS Voluntary Code, but is not a legal requirement or regulatory approval.

What is the DCMS Voluntary Code of Good Practice for prize draws?

The DCMS Voluntary Code of Good Practice for Prize Draw Operators was published by the UK Government's Department for Culture, Media and Sport in 2025. Over 100 operators have signed it. It sets out standards for player protection, transparency, draw integrity and accountability. The full implementation deadline is 20 May 2026.

Are UK online prize draws legal?

Yes. UK online prize draws are legal under the Gambling Act 2005 provided a genuine free entry route exists alongside any paid entry route. They are not regulated by the Gambling Commission. The DCMS Voluntary Code of Good Practice provides the primary regulatory framework.

How does OCSA certification work?

OCSA offers three certification tiers: Certified (£75/month), Silver (£275/month) and Gold (£1,275/month). Each tier requires an audit of the operator's website and processes against OCSA's standards. OCSA standards are more demanding than the DCMS Voluntary Code.

What is the OCSA draw register?

The OCSA public draw register at draws.ocsa.org.uk/register/ records all certified draws with permanent blockchain verification on the Polygon mainnet. Each draw uses Chainlink VRF (verifiable random function) to ensure results cannot be predicted or manipulated.

What is the OCSA instant win prize manifest register?

The OCSA instant win register at draws.ocsa.org.uk/iw/ publishes the SHA-256 hash of each sealed prize manifest before the competition opens. OCSA acts as independent arbiter — generating all winning ticket numbers before sales begin and holding the manifest encrypted. Neither the operator nor OCSA staff can alter winning ticket numbers after sealing.

Report a Concern

If you have a concern about an online prize-draw operator, or about OCSA itself, we want to hear from you.

Please use the appropriate page below — each one explains clearly what we can do, what to include, and what happens after you get in touch.

Concerned about an operator?

If something has gone wrong with a competition, an operator's conduct, or a claim of OCSA certification, visit our operator complaints page.

→ How to Complain About an Operator

Concerned about OCSA?

If you believe OCSA has acted unfairly or made an error, visit our OCSA complaints page.

→ How to Complain About OCSA

Report a Concern

Concerned about an operator?

Concerned about OCSA?

0330 223 7628