BGC's Five-Point Plan to Suffocate the Gambling Black Market

The BGC says stronger collaboration between government, regulators, technology companies, and financial institutions is urgently needed to protect consumers.

Here’s how they plan to execute their strategy.

Shut Down Illegal Gambling Advertising

The BGC wants social media companies to take greater responsibility for removing illegal gambling advertisements and content.

The proposal comes at a time when concerns around online advertising are already intensifying, both in the regulated and illegal markets. With the increasing use of influencers, social media platforms, and even AI-generated content to reach potential customers, it’s becoming harder to police.

However, an AI tool launched by the ASA^[1] is set to begin work on the 11th June. With social media companies also helping to take down illegal content, British consumers should be better protected online.

Block Illegal Gambling Websites

The second step^[2] is for the Gambling Commission to receive stronger powers to block illegal websites and apps.

Direct disruption has been stepped up dramatically as of late anyway, with the UKGC given a greater enforcement budget and authorities becoming more aggressive in tackling illegal operators. 

Cut Off the Money

In perhaps the boldest step suggested, the BGC has argued that payment providers should do more to prevent transactions linked to illegal gambling businesses.

While practical questions remain around how quickly and effectively payment providers can identify and block transactions, it’s true that cutting off money might be the largest possible deterrent. 

Hold Enablers Accountable

Another recommendation focuses on introducing meaningful penalties for companies that knowingly facilitate illegal gambling operations through advertising, hosting or payment processing.

With this point, the BGC is arguing that businesses cannot continue to claim neutrality if they profit from supporting illegal operators.