Illegal Gambling Market Hits $50 Billion, Targets Vulnerable Britons

The global illegal gambling market reached a staggering $50 billion in 2025, according to a report cited by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC).

The report, conducted by Fincord Intelligence, highlights how illegal gambling websites specifically target gamblers who are registered on GAMSTOP, using various morally dubious practices. These websites employ influencer marketing and a complex ecosystem to stay operational despite regulatory responses.

Illegal gambling websites have little to no financial checks and betting limits, making them particularly dangerous for vulnerable consumers who are more likely to spend without realizing the financial toll. These sites are marketed through the 'Not on GAMSTOP' keyword technique, which targets people who have already enrolled in the nation’s self-exclusion program. Additionally, these websites use social media, affiliates, and messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp to avoid the protections of the regulated market. Influencer marketing is also a key strategy, where online influencers send their followers to these websites, further expanding their reach, especially among those at risk or already experiencing gambling-related issues.