Game Providers Must Decide: Legal or Illegal Operations?

The Gambling Commission has called for a decisive stance from game providers amid growing concerns about licensed gaming content appearing on unregulated websites targeting British consumers. The regulator demands urgent action to ensure compliance and protect consumers from the risks posed by illegal markets.

The Issue at Hand

Licensed casino games have been discovered on unlicensed platforms accessible to British consumers. These platforms operate outside the regulatory framework, lacking safeguards like social responsibility measures and anti-money laundering (AML) controls. As a result, consumers are left vulnerable to fraud, data breaches, and unethical practices.

Of particular concern is the exploitation of self-excluded players, including those registered with the GAMSTOP scheme, by unlicensed operators. Such activity undermines the efforts of regulated operators and erodes trust in the gaming industry.

Game Providers Under Scrutiny

The Gambling Commission has identified a troubling pattern: third-party resellers are distributing gaming content from licensed operators in breach of contractual agreements. This includes high-profile B2B operators supplying slots and live casino games.

To address this, the Commission has urged providers to take immediate steps:

Review partnerships to identify non-compliant resellers.

Terminate agreements with entities involved in illegal markets.

Report breaches and outline preventive measures to the regulator.

Consequences of Inaction

Failure to address these issues could have severe repercussions, including the potential loss of licenses. Providers must recognize the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between legal and illegal operations to protect their reputation and ensure long-term viability.

Proactive Measures from the Gambling Commission

The regulator has signaled a more aggressive approach, including test purchasing to identify breaches. A recent investigation into Evolution Gaming illustrates the stakes. Evolution’s gaming content was found on unlicensed platforms targeting British consumers, prompting the company to implement IP-blocking measures and remove its games.

The investigation remains ongoing and may lead to sanctions, license conditions, or even revocation. This serves as a warning to other operators about the importance of vigilance in maintaining compliance.

Final Word

Game providers must make a clear choice: operate within the bounds of the law or risk the consequences of association with illegal markets. The Gambling Commission’s message is unambiguous—there is no room for complacency in the fight to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of the gaming industry.