8% of self-excluded players use unlicensed gambling platforms, Gamstop says

Gamstop aims to increase collaborations to raise awareness of its platform.

UK.- The UK gambling self-exclusion provider Gamstop has reported that around 8 per cent of people registered with the scheme have engaged in gambling through unlicensed platforms. That’s according to an independent review.

Gamstop said the widespread presence of black market gambling sites and affiliate networks was one of the most persistent challenges that its service faces. It noted that it has collaborated with the Gambling Commission to identify and report illegal operators, as well as to remove promotional content.

However, websites branding themselves as “non-Gamstop casinos” continue to appear, specifically targeting the more than 600,000 users who have signed up for Gamstop’s self-exclusion system. The charity has confirmed that a notable portion of its user base has interacted with these.

New Gamstop chair seeks more collaboration

Under the leadership of its newly appointed chair, Chris Pond, Gamstop now aims to enhance collaboration with other bodies and platforms, including integration between its digital self-exclusion platform and MOSES, the system used in land-based betting shops.

Pond said: There is scope for data sharing and early intervention, where financial behaviour may signal risk; embedding self-exclusion tools into banking apps and platforms; and joint awareness campaigns to promote responsible gambling and financial wellbeing.

He added: “Reaching sports audiences is crucial. Football and other sports are closely linked to gambling advertising and sponsorship, and many fans may be at risk or know someone who is. By partnering with clubs and sports organisations, we can raise awareness in high-risk environments and promote positive messages about self-care and support.”

Pond succeeds Jenny Watson CBE, who led the organisation for seven years, and steps into the role during a pivotal moment for gambling regulation in the UK. A new gambling levy came into force this year to fund research, education and treatment. And just this week, 101 Labour MPs signed a letter calling for gambling tax hike in the UK.

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See also: British Gambling Commission stresses National Lottery’s role in setting standard for safety