UK Gambling Commission Releases Final Illegal Gambling Report

A new report has landed from the UK Gambling Commission, focusing on the ongoing challenge of illegal online gambling. The review closes out a four-part research project that has been unfolding throughout the year. The goal: understand why people end up gambling on unlicensed sites, what patterns are appearing, and how regulators and other industries can counter the activity more effectively.

Good to Know

• Some players do not always realize a site operates outside the regulated system
• Illegal operators often shift tactics quickly, making enforcement harder
• Joint action with technology platforms and financial services is increasingly important

The fourth report in the series is titled Estimating the size of the illegal online gambling market. It looks closely at how difficult it is to measure something that is intentionally hidden. Determining the scale requires assumptions because data gaps are common, and some activity leaves no trace at all. The Commission compares the challenge to estimating illegal tobacco trade levels — another market that operates out of sight and adapts fast.

Focus on Understanding, Not Guessing Numbers

Earlier reports in the series looked at why consumers engage with unlicensed sites, how often and in what ways they do so, and what action is being taken to disrupt operators. The latest chapter turns attention to measurement. Instead of offering one headline figure, the Commission explains why a single number can easily misrepresent the real picture.

Many players who end up on illegal sites did not intentionally seek them out. Sometimes they followed online ads that appeared legitimate, sometimes they were blocked from regulated operators due to self-exclusion, and sometimes they simply did not understand licensing differences. So the motivations vary, rather than pointing to one clear reason.

The research also indicates there is no confirmed trend showing a rise in the illegal market within available data. However, gaps remain, and the Commission stresses that caution is necessary before making broad claims in either direction.

Collaboration Remains Central

The wider effort to limit unlicensed gambling activity involves more than one sector. Payment providers, social media platforms, search engines, internet service companies, and consumer protection groups all play a part. Regulatory enforcement can only reach so far without shared cooperation.

Chief Executive Andrew Rhodes explained:

“Illegal online gambling remains a serious threat to consumers and to the integrity of the regulated market.

While measuring the full scale of the problem is complex, our understanding is growing — and so too is our ability to disrupt illegal operators.
Our independent research has strengthened the evidence base, improved transparency, and underlined that progress depends on a collective effort across sectors.”

The Commission plans to continue refining data collection methods, targeting illegal platforms, and working with others to improve public awareness.

FAQ

Why do some people use unlicensed gambling sites?

Reasons vary. Some believe they are getting better odds or different game choices, others cannot access regulated platforms due to self-exclusion, and some simply do not realize the operator lacks a license.

Does the report show the illegal market growing?

The available data does not suggest sustained growth. However, measurement challenges make it hard to draw broad conclusions.

What role do tech companies play in prevention?

Platforms hosting ads, app stores, payment processors, and search engines can help limit promotion and access to illegal sites.

Are all players on illegal sites intentionally breaking rules?

No. Many are unaware they are outside the regulated system.

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