BGC Urges Major Tech Platforms to Act Against the Gambling Black Market

United Kingdom.- June 18, 2026 – www.zonadeazar.com The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has published an open letter addressed to major technology platforms, including Google, Meta, search engines, social media networks and digital advertising providers, warning about the growth of the illegal online gambling market and calling for coordinated action.

🚨 Black Market Continues to Expand

According to the BGC, unlicensed operators are using social media platforms, search engines, messaging services and digital advertising channels to target UK consumers, including vulnerable individuals and self-excluded players.

BGC Chief Executive Grainne Hurst stated that technology companies must play a more active role in preventing illegal gambling operators from reaching consumers.

📈 Growing Concerns

The organization estimates that gambling activity through illegal operators could increase from approximately £17 billion to £33 billion by 2028.

The BGC is calling for stronger measures to remove illegal advertising, block unauthorized gambling websites and disrupt payment systems used by black-market operators.

⚠️ Consumer Protection Risks

The Council emphasized that illegal operators do not provide age-verification controls, responsible gambling tools or consumer protection mechanisms, exposing players to higher risks of fraud and gambling-related harm.

Edited by: @_fonta