EGBA members warn of worsening illegal market threat

Leading operator members of the European Gaming and Betting Association have come together to demand “decisive action” against the illegal gaming market across the continent.

In an open letter, evoke CEO Per Widerström was among those to urge national policymakers to “design regulatory frameworks that balance robust consumer protections with a competitive and innovative online gambling environment that is attractive to players.”

Regulations should not “inadvertently make unsafe alternatives more appealing, especially to vulnerable players,” with a “balanced” approach “essential,” the EGBA said.

Interim Entain CEO Stella David, Flutter CEO Peter Jackson, bet365 joint group CEO John Coates, Kindred CEO Nils Andén and the CEO of Betsson Operations, Jesper Svensson, also put their name to the letter.

The leaders pointed to the situation in France, where the French Online Gaming Association reported that over four million players use black market online casino websites, more than the 3.6 million people who use regulated sports betting sites.

Despite progress in ensuring player safety, the European industry is facing “a significant challenge,” the EGBA members said.

“The growth of the black market for online gambling, driven by websites run from outside Europe, poses a mounting threat to the safety of European players, including our customers.

“These unregulated websites evade the responsibilities that regulated operators adhere to, and operate outside of regulatory oversight in Europe. Yet, the websites are easy to find, and the popularity of VPNs means they are easily accessible.

“Worryingly, many black market operators lack even the most basic consumer protections such as age verification and safer gambling policies, exposing players to unacceptable risks.

“With lower operating costs, they entice players with attractive sign-up bonuses, promotions, and competitive odds, appealing particularly to vulnerable players seeking unrestricted play and a ‘no questions asked’ culture.”