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Risks of children being exposed to gambling online

09 October 2017

An open letter to the Editor of the Sunday Times following their story on 8 October about the risks of children being exposed to gambling online.

Sir Parents will understandably be concerned to read about the risks of children being exposed to gambling online.

Protecting children from being harmed or exploited by gambling is a clear priority for the Gambling Commission. Our rules require strong age verification checks to prevent underage gambling. Where businesses fail to protect vulnerable people, especially children, we have and will continue to take firm action.

Our current powers to regulate online gambling have been in effect for just a couple of years. However, the online world is fast moving meaning we constantly monitor the approach we take. Earlier this year we announced that we had commenced a wide ranging review of online gambling. At the same time our expert advisers, the Responsible Gambling Strategy Board (opens in new tab), are examining the wider relationship between children and gambling. Together these will give a clear picture of where further action may be necessary.

New technology brings both opportunities but also new risks. Earlier this year we successfully prosecuted two YouTube users who were exploiting the FIFA computer game to provide illegal gambling which was accessible to children - the first regulator in the world to bring such action. This clash between the world of computer games and the world of gambling is just one example of the need for continuous vigilance when keeping children safe online.

The Gambling Commission is committed to using our powers and our expertise to play our part in creating a safer internet.

Tim Miller Executive Director - Corporate Affairs and Research

Note to editors

  1. More information about how we regulate the gambling industry.
  2. Useful statistics on the gambling industry.

Journalists can contact our press office on 0121 230 6700 or email: communications@gamblingcommission.gov.uk

For all media enquiries, please contact the Gambling Commission press office.

Last updated: 20 December 2023

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