Andrew Rhodes, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), has announced plans to amplify the crackdown on software providers who are cooperating with illegal operators, i.e. unregulated operators.
During the International Association of Gaming Advisors (IAGA), Rhodes talked about the commitment of the Gambling Commission to using advanced tools and investigative methods, such as covert test purchases, to identify game developers who are taking part in unlicensed gambling activities.
This highly concerning development comes amid a period where the regulator faces a great deal of scrutiny regarding their stance on this pressing matter, especially after the news of Evolution allowing unlicensed operators to access its games, resulting in the supplier’s license being reviewed.
CEO Rhodes proceeded to issue a stern warning to companies that rely on third-party suppliers, explaining that if the Gambling Commission decides it is “neccessary to suspend or revoke the license of any operator or supplier,” the decision would be effective immediately and the operator or supplier would be instantly banned from working.
Whatever they are supplying you with, stops – immediately. Anyone who is reliant on a third party needs to be comfortable that they are not likely to face that risk and if you think you are, I would be doing something about that now.
Moreover, Rhodes also discussed the Commission’s recent focus on “upstream discussion” and the regulator’s goal to invest significantly in battling illegal football gambling, following the recent European trend where regulators are targeting payment providers and suppliers to deter illegal gambling platforms.
Finally, Rhodes also touched upon the sensitive matter of the mounting complexities of UK gambling regulation, mentioning upcoming changes and current debates, including the necessity of creating an Ombudsman and Statutory Levy.
As the Statutory Levy, Ombudsman and various other changes get nearer, I do wonder whether the frequent ‘absolutism’ we often see in the commentary from various groups will continue.
Near the end of 2024, the UKGC conducted the first-ever in-depth black market study for the UK, with the initial results scheduled for release this upcoming spring.
