What The BGC's Five-Point Black Market Plan Could Mean For UK Gamblers

On the 8th June, the Betting and Gaming Council announced their five-point plan aimed at tackling the UK's growing gambling black market. This comes after several articles released by the industry body showing the growing scale of the black market.

From illegal stakes at the Epsom Derby festival reaching up to £10 million, to the illegal gambling advertising spend increasing to 50% of the total market spend ahead of the World Cup, the BGC has been relentless in its reporting of this growing problem.

Indeed, H2 Gambling Capital forecasts suggest black market stakes could exceed £33bn by 2028. While the proposals from the BGC aren't yet policy, they offer insight into how the fight against illegal operators could evolve. We look at each point and what it could mean for UK gamblers.

Shut Down Illegal Gambling Advertising

The first stage of the BGC's proposal is to encourage technology companies to take greater responsibility for identifying and removing illegal gambling content before it reaches British audiences.

For UK consumers, this means you’d see fewer promotions from offshore gambling operators, on social media and online advertising. This could reduce accidental exposure to sites operating outside UK rules, particularly if you often discover operators through search results or social platforms rather than seeking them out directly.

Block Illegal Gambling Websites

The BGC is calling for stronger powers to block illegal websites and apps. This means that offshore sites will become much more difficult to find and access through  ‘conventional’ routes. You’ll see warnings, blocked pages, and app not found notices more often.

Historically, illegal operators have adapted quickly, launching replacement domains/apps, meaning that any enforcement effort would need to be sustained.

Cut Off The Money

The next suggested stage has been for banks and other payment providers to play a larger role in preventing gambling with unlicensed operators.

If payment restrictions were introduced, deposits to illegal sites could fail before ever being processed. Withdrawals from offshore operators could also become more difficult to complete.

For consumers gambling at unlicensed sites, this would be sure to create additional friction around payments, or at least serve as a warning that a site is operating without a licence.

Hold Enablers Accountable

The BGC wants companies that knowingly support illegal operators through hosting, advertising or payment services to face tougher consequences.

Although this proposal targets businesses rather than players, consumers could indirectly benefit. Fewer illegal brands will be visible online, thanks to greater scrutiny over advertisements and affiliate promotions linked to unlicensed operators.

Get Tougher On Illegal Operators

The BGC wants stronger criminal sanctions for those operating and profiting from illegal gambling businesses.

This should help protect consumers by discouraging operators that offer none of the safeguards found within the regulated market. These safeguards include age verification, identity checks, safer gambling tools and formal complaints procedures.

Why This Matters

Although none of these proposals are guaranteed to become law, they arrive at a time when black market concerns are climbing up the regulatory agenda. The Government has already established a Black Market Taskforce. Industry forecasts also suggest illegal gambling could continue to grow if further action isn't taken.

For UK gamblers, the five-point plan provides a clearer picture of how regulators and the industry may attempt to shape the online gambling landscape in the coming months and years.