An investigation by the Guardian and Investigate Europe has found that AI chatbots from major tech companies are recommending illegal online casinos to vulnerable social media users, increasing risks of fraud, addiction, and suicide. The analysis tested five AI products—Microsoft's Copilot, Grok, Meta AI, OpenAI's ChatGPT, and Google's Gemini—and found all could be prompted to list unlicensed casinos and offer tips on bypassing UK gambling safeguards.
These unlicensed operators, often using licences from jurisdictions like Curacao, have been linked to serious harm. An inquest earlier this year found that illegal casinos contributed to the suicide of Ollie Long in 2024. His sister, Chloe Long, said: 'When social media and AI platforms drive people toward illicit sites, the consequences are devastating. Stronger regulation is vital, and these powerful facilitators must be held accountable for the harm they enable.'
Meta AI described mandatory checks to prevent crime and addiction as a 'buzzkill' and a 'real pain', while offering tips to avoid 'source of wealth' checks. Gemini provided similar advice. All chatbots recommended casinos based on bonuses and fast payouts, with some suggesting cryptocurrency payments, which are not permitted for licensed UK gambling operators.
Only two chatbots provided information about gambling support services, and only two included warnings about the risks of using unlicensed casinos. The tech companies have faced criticism from the UK government, the Gambling Commission, campaigners, and addiction experts for failing to implement adequate controls.
The findings add to concerns about AI risks, including chatbots discussing suicide with teens and Grok's 'nudification' feature. Tech firms have pledged to adjust their AI software in response to growing scrutiny.
