New Powers to UKGC to Crack Down On Illegal Websites

Over a year ago, minister Lucy Frazer stated that they would empower the regulator, “to pursue court orders which require internet service and payment providers to take down or block access to illegal gambling sites”.

Now, such powers to be assigned to the UKGC appeared as part of the wide ranging Criminal Justice Bill which would award several UK institutions new enforcement powers.

The bill is due to go before the House of Commons as part of its report stage on May 16, at which point MPs can suggest amendments ahead of the bill’s third and final reading.

Currently, IP and domain blocking of offshore gambling sites are conducted through voluntary arrangements with UK-based internet companies.Along with the said arrangements, the regulator issues cease and desist letters, works with payment providers to stop offshore payments, engages with search engines to remove links to illegal gambling and works with social media to take down posts promoting unlicensed gambling.

As soon as the new powers will be assigned to the UKGC, the regulator will be enabled to apply to a judge for a “suspension order” that empowers the commission to order internet service providers to block access to specific website domains or IP addresses.

The powers would also extend beyond the borders of the UK. The commission will be able to serve IP and domain blocking orders against companies based outside its usual jurisdiction, so long as it has evidence to believe they are being used to facilitate illegal gambling in the UK. 

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https://www.compliancecommittee.com/

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