Key Moments:
- The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has debuted a campaign video warning about dangers from illegal gambling sites.
- The film, Black Market: Spot The Difference, demonstrates how unregulated operators imitate legitimate platforms while lacking consumer protections.
- The regulated industry contributes £6.8 billion to the UK economy, produces £4 billion in tax, and supports about 109,000 jobs in the UK.
Raising Awareness about Unregulated Operators
The Betting and Gaming Council has released a new video aiming to inform the public about the risks of using unlicensed gambling platforms. This piece, called Black Market: Spot The Difference, illustrates the deceptive similarities between illicit sites and trustworthy operators, drawing attention to how easily consumers can mistake one for the other.
Could you spot the difference?
We've unveiled a compelling new video to raise awareness of the growing threat posed by unsafe, unregulated gambling operators.https://t.co/Mw0Cv88w7K pic.twitter.com/iOSuetchCe
— Betting and Gaming Council (@BetGameCouncil) October 1, 2025
Illicit Gambling Undermines Consumer Safety and the Economy
The campaign video starts by presenting what seems to be a well-known and appealing betting site, complete with promotions and a user-friendly interface. As the narrative progresses, it unveils that this seemingly trusted platform is managed by an unlicensed black market operator. These unauthorized sites copy the look and feel of established brands, but they operate outside of local laws and provide none of the protections or responsible gambling safeguards expected from licensed companies.
Unlike operators regulated in the UK, these illegal outlets do not support the economy. They pay no taxes, resulting in lost revenue that could be directed to public services and local communities. The legitimate sector, by contrast, generates £6.8 billion in economic value, contributes £4 billion in taxes, and sustains about 109,000 jobs throughout the UK. Additionally, it continues to offer significant funding to some of the country’s most popular sports.
| Sector | Economic Contribution | Tax Contribution | Employment Supported |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regulated Betting & Gaming | £6.8 billion | £4 billion | ~109,000 jobs |
| Black Market/Unregulated | Not specified | £0 | Not specified |
Industry Commitment to Raising Standards
The BGC’s campaign delivers a reminder of the importance of the UK’s regulated gambling sector, founded on principles of player wellbeing, openness, and ethical standards. By illustrating the tactics used by illicit operators, the initiative encourages the public to be vigilant and avoid platforms that do not provide proper safeguards.
A BGC spokesperson said:
“This campaign is about exposing the hidden dangers of the black market. These unregulated sites deliberately mimic trusted brands but play by none of the rules that keep people safe. The Black Market: Spot The Difference campaign forms part of the BGC’s wider commitment to raising standards and promoting safer gambling, complementing major industry initiatives such as Safer Gambling Week.”
The BGC urges viewers to watch the campaign video and follow upcoming updates as the organization continues its efforts to promote responsible gambling practices.
- Author
Daniel Williams
