Illegal Casinos Target UK Players via “Not on GamStop” Searches – Investigation

‘Not on GamStop’ Searches Driving Traffic

GamStop, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme, means that not only does the ‘not on GamStop’ keyword directly target UK players, it more specifically targets players who have chosen to self-exclude.

Using the absence of GamStop as a key selling point flies in the face of protections put in place by the UK Gambling Commission, which had previously warned (Source: Gambling) that offshore operators may attempt to attract self-excluded players.  

This is particularly concerning as these sites don’t operate under the rules of the UKGC, meaning they can offer larger bonuses with higher wagering requirements, as well as games that have not been independently tested for fairness. 

UK-Focused Language and Features

Despite operating offshore, many of the platforms are tailored specifically to UK users. They have:

• GBP (£) as a default currency
• UK-focused sports markets such as Premier League football and horse racing
• English-language promotions referencing UK players
• Payment options commonly used by UK customers

Crypto Payments and Regulatory Gaps

Some of the platforms also promote cryptocurrency payments. Currently, UK Gambling Commission-licensed operators are not permitted to offer crypto gambling (Source: Sigman World). Crypto payments can make it:

• More difficult to trace transactions
• More difficult to resolve disputes
• Much easier to gamble anonymously
• Much easier to launder money