The UK's Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has sent an open letter to technology companies, questioning whether they are doing enough to combat illegal gambling. The BGC has intensified efforts to monitor and counteract black market online casinos and betting sites, focusing initially on the influence of illegal gambling on advertising.
BGC Chief Executive Calls for Action
BGC chief executive Grianne Hurst penned a letter to tech firms, stating: “We are writing to you because a growing threat to consumers is flourishing on your platforms. Every day, illegal gambling operators use social media, search engines, messaging services and digital advertising networks to reach people in Britain.”
The open letter follows the BGC's announcement that illegal betting could total £33 billion by 2028 if no action is taken. According to the BGC, tech firms have the resources to identify and remove adverts promoting illegal gambling.
Tech Firms Have the Tools, Says BGC
Hurst’s letter also read: “You have the data. You have the expertise. You have the artificial intelligence tools. You have the ability to identify harmful illegal content at scale. The issue is no longer whether this problem can be addressed. The issue is whether enough is being done.”
The letter went on to list the BGC’s fears, continuing: “The black market is growing. The threat is real. The consumers at risk are real. And the time for action is now.”
Impact of Illegal Gambling
The BGC's warning highlights the potential for significant consumer harm and lost tax revenue from unregulated gambling. The council is urging tech giants to take proactive measures to block illegal gambling advertisements and protect UK consumers.
