The UK Gambling Commission (GC) has announced a proactive approach to monitoring supplier activities to ensure no involvement with unlicensed operators. The Commission is also considering implementing tests to detect potential violations.
The GC has issued a warning after discovering instances where games from licensed suppliers were found being utilised by unlicensed entities. They have called on UK licensees to strengthen the monitoring of their business relationships to avoid inadvertently supporting illegal gambling activities.
The Commission stated:
“In certain cases, third-party distributors have delivered games supplied by operators to the illegal market, often breaching contractual obligations. Licensees may have acted negligently, thus jeopardising their own licences.”
Urging Greater Due Diligence
Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive of the Gambling Commission, has repeatedly urged licensees to conduct thorough checks on their partners. He remarked:
“I do not understand why anyone in the licensed industry would want to work with companies supporting illegal competitors.”
In a recent statement, the Commission highlighted the presence of licensed supplier content, such as live games, live casinos, and slot machines, on unlicensed websites. These platforms often lack robust social responsibility measures and safeguards against money laundering, exposing consumers to risks such as fraud, data breaches, and unfair practices.
Recommended Actions
The Commission stressed the importance of continuous monitoring of business relationships and urged licensees to cease partnerships with any entities involved in illegal operations. Additionally, licensees are encouraged to work closely with the Commission and present clear plans to address any identified issues.
The GC reiterated that combating unlicensed gambling is essential to its mission of preventing gambling from being a source of crime while minimising risks to consumers in the UK.
By adopting a proactive stance and introducing possible testing measures, the Gambling Commission signals a firm commitment to eradicating illegal activities in the sector.
