Summary
- A recent survey reveals that illegal gambling operators are persistently preying on those who are most vulnerable.
- Research indicates that countless affiliates are deliberately targeting vulnerable consumers and underage individuals.
- Yield Sec asserts that crime has become clever, evolving specifically to prey on these consumers.
A recent survey by the Campaign for Fairer Gambling and Yield Sec reveals a concerning trend: illegal gambling in Great Britain might largely be fueled by those who are barred from betting through GAMSTOP, the national self-exclusion program, or by underage individuals trying to engage in gambling activities.
Survey highlights the seriousness of the illegal gambling market
The report, commissioned by the CFG and conducted by Yield Sec, sheds light on critical problems stemming from the illegal gambling market, especially its targeting of vulnerable individuals. Alarmingly, 9% of Great Britain's gambling sector, valued at ÂŁ8.2 billion, is now dominated by black-market entities. Countless affiliates currently exploit vulnerable individuals by employing dubious tactics like advertising websites not on GAMSTOP to lure gamblers who are legally barred from playing. Matej Novota, Head of Casino Research at Casino House Group, expressed concern: It's troubling to witness the exploitation of at-risk players. This situation underscores the importance of stringent regulations in keeping the black market in check. Unfortunately, those targeting the most vulnerable, such as minors or those on exclusion lists, persist. It is crucial to provide education to young people while enforcing strict actions against predatory operators. According to the survey, hundreds of illegal online gambling operators amassed ÂŁ583 million in gross gambling revenue in 2024 alone, preying on those least able to cope with losses. In the first half of 2025, the revenue from this unlawful market reached ÂŁ379 million and is poised for further growth. Significantly, while the online gambling market experienced a 19% increase between 2022 and 2024, the illegal online gambling sector expanded by an astonishing 345%.
Predatory practices underpin the illegal gambling market’s growth
The report reveals a concerning truth: illegal websites are not only preying on the 532,484 individuals excluded from GAMSTOP but are also luring in minors who can't legally gamble at local venues. Derek Webb, the founder of CFG, sheds light on these troubling trends, urging society to acknowledge the harsh reality where illegal gambling continues to reign, manipulating countless lives through underhanded marketing tactics. Ismail Vali, founder and CEO of Yield Sec, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. He notes that crime is anything but foolish, asserting that illegal operators are unlikely to transition to the regulated market, especially with stricter rules on the horizon. The illegals in Great Britain can't consistently outdo the legal market in terms of price, product, or promotion, Vali points out. There's no sensible reason for mainstream consumers to turn to illegal operators, which means that those targeted by crime are either under 18 or part of the GAMSTOP self-exclusion scheme. These vulnerable consumers are the prime targets. This growing issue demands lawmakers' attention. As the illegal gambling market expands, there's an urgent need for change.
