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Latest trends in online gambling

The following types of gambling are closely linked with gaming. We recommend that parents are aware of these kind of activities, particularly if you're giving your child money for in-game items.

eSports

Electronic sports, also known as eSports, is playing computer games competitively. That may be two players against each other, or tournaments with hundreds of players. Platforms such as Twitch live stream these events to players all over the world. Some of the most popular games include Fortnight and the Fifa eClub World Cup.

eSports betting

Betting on eSports shouldn’t be treated any differently to betting on any other live event. Any gambling business offering eSports betting must have a licence with us. They should also carry out relevant age and identity checks to make sure the player is old enough to gamble.

Skins betting

Skins are in-game digital items used in some of the most popular video games. They include things like alterations to characters, weapons and equipment. The value of skins are based on their appearance, rarity and popularity.

Some websites have used these skins as a currency for illegal gambling. There is a risk that children may be gambling using skins.

If you find your child is gambling on skins websites

We want to hear from you so we can continue to crack down on unlicensed websites. You can report illegal activity to us confidentially.

What we’re doing to protect consumers

We’ve signed a memorandum of understanding with the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC). This is to ensure lessons learnt from other sports are applied to eSports.

We’re committed to working with the ESIC to address potential integrity risks. You can find out more about ESIC's integrity programme on their website (opens in new tab).

We also have a number of tools to tackle illegal sites.

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Tips for parents: children and online gaming

Last updated: 26 August 2023

Show updates to this content

Updated 'report illegal activity' link to point to Tell us something in confidence page.

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