A new report reveals UK gamblers are turning to unregulated platforms due to increased restrictions on licensed products and the influence of social media personalities.
The gambling landscape in the UK is shifting as players seek alternatives to increasingly regulated domestic options. A recent study by gambling charity Deal Me Out highlights a concerning trend: a significant number of UK gamblers are migrating to unregulated platforms, driven by stricter controls on licensed products and the allure of cryptocurrency betting.
The report, which surveyed over 1,500 individuals including children, adults, and gambling content creators, found that social media influencers play a crucial role in directing traffic to these unlicensed sites. Each month, up to 5 million clicks across various social platforms lead users to black market gambling operations through affiliate links.
Perhaps most alarming is the potential impact on younger users. Deal Me Out estimates that as many as 420,000 underage school children in the UK may be accessing illegal gambling sites. This demographic shows a particular interest in loot boxes and in-game currencies, as well as crypto gambling platforms, which are not legally sanctioned in the UK.
Content creators themselves are feeling the pressure to use unlicensed platforms. One YouTube creator stated, "Regulation has forced our hand; if we don't use crypto casinos we just can't compete." This sentiment echoes across the industry, with many streamers citing viewer demand for high-stakes content and features not available on regulated UK sites.
The UK Gambling Commission's recent regulatory reforms, including mandatory deposit limits and spin stake restrictions, have contributed to this exodus. Some players express frustration with increased personal information requirements and the loss of popular features like bonuses and turbo spins.
Deal Me Out warns that simply using disruptive methods against black market operators is insufficient. The organization calls for an urgent review of crypto gambling regulations and a public awareness campaign about the risks associated with unregulated platforms.
As the industry grapples with these challenges, the balance between consumer protection and market demand remains a critical issue. The crypto casino sector, in particular, faces scrutiny as global blockchain operators continue to attract UK citizens despite regulatory barriers.
