UK Gambling Commission tightens efforts to combat illegal online gambling operations, appearing on unauthorized websites

The UK Gambling Commission is ramping up its efforts to combat unlicensed gambling activities following the discovery of online casino games, originally supplied by licensed operators, appearing on unauthorized websites targeting British consumers. The Commission has issued a warning to operators and signaled its intent to conduct test purchasing to identify potential breaches.  

In a recently released statement, the regulator noted the risks associated with these unregulated websites, which often fail to implement essential safeguards required of licensed operators.

These platforms have been found to target vulnerable consumers, including individuals who have self-excluded through the GAMSTOP scheme. The absence of robust social responsibility measures and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) controls leaves users exposed to fraud, data privacy breaches, and other harmful practices.  

The Commission has urged Business-to-Business (B2B) operators that provide gaming solutions such as live games, live casinos, and slot offerings to review their practices and ensure compliance. Investigations have revealed that third-party resellers are distributing games supplied by licensed operators to the illegal market, often violating contractual agreements. The Commission warned that operators failing to prevent such occurrences risk jeopardizing their licenses.  

The Commission advises operators to actively monitor their business relationships to ensure any partners are not participating in offering illegal gambling facilities to the GB market, and where identified, terminating relationships where non-compliance has occurred. 

Operators are also required to report any instances of their products being offered illegally and to outline the steps they have taken to prevent further occurrences. The Commission noted that prompt reporting and a clear mitigation plan are essential to meet regulatory expectations.