Key points:
- Licensed casino games have been found on unlicensed websites accessible in Britain
- Unlicensed platforms lack regulatory safeguards, exposing consumers to risks
- Operators are advised to terminate non-compliant partnerships and report breaches
The Gambling Commission has raised concerns about unlicensed gambling platforms offering casino games originally supplied by licensed operators.
These unregulated websites, available to British consumers, often target vulnerable individuals, including those who have self-excluded via the GAMSTOP scheme.
The regulator warns that such platforms lack the social responsibility and anti-money laundering (AML) controls required of licensed operators, leaving customers at risk of fraud, data breaches and unfair practices.
The Commission has identified that third-party resellers distributing gaming content from licensed operators are often in breach of contractual obligations.
Licensed B2B operators, including those offering live casino games and slots, have been urged to actively monitor their business relationships and terminate agreements where illegal activity is identified.
Good to know: Failure to address such issues, the regulator states, could jeopardise operators’ licences.
Operators are also encouraged to engage directly with the Commission when illegal activity is detected, outlining measures to prevent future occurrences.
The regulator has signalled that it will adopt a proactive approach, including test purchasing activities, to identify and address potential breaches.
This follows the Gambling Commission’s investigation into Evolution Gaming in December 2024. The inquiry was launched after Evolution’s gaming content was found on unlicensed platforms targeting British consumers.
Evolution confirmed it had removed the games and implemented IP-blocking measures to prevent further access by unlicensed operators. The investigation remains ongoing and could result in sanctions, licence conditions or revocation.
