BGC survey forecasts £2.7 billion wagered each year on UK’s illegal gambling market
A recent survey commissioned by the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and conducted by Frontier Economics reveals that approximately £2.7 billion is wagered annually on unlicensed online betting sites in the UK. This figure represents about 2.1% of the £128 billion staked with regulated online operators. The report highlights a growing concern over the expansion of the illegal gambling market, which operates outside the reach of existing laws and consumer protections.
BGC Chief Executive Grainne Hurst described the findings as “shocking” and emphasized the need for a broader, strategic response beyond merely increasing regulatory powers. The report estimates that illegal gambling activities could lead to up to £335 million in lost tax revenue over a five-year parliamentary term. Users of illegal platforms are exposed to risks such as lack of fair play guarantees, unsecured funds, and absence of personal data protection, as these sites operate without regulation or oversight.
