BGC Launches Powerful New Campaign Video Exposing the Dangers of the Black Market

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has unveiled a compelling new campaign video to raise awareness of the growing threat posed by unsafe, unregulated gambling operators.

As part of this initiative, the BGC has released a short film titled Black Market: Spot The Difference, which highlights how illegal gambling sites can appear legitimate while concealing serious risks for consumers.

The video opens with what looks like a familiar, trusted betting platform - bright, enticing, and full of offers. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the site is in fact run by an unlicensed black market operator. These illicit platforms mimic reputable brands but operate outside UK law, offering no player protections or responsible gambling measures.

Unlike licensed operators, black market sites contribute nothing to the UK economy. They pay no tax, depriving the Treasury of vital funds for public services and local communities. By contrast, the regulated betting and gaming industry contributes £6.8 billion to the economy annually, generates £4 billion in tax, and supports around 109,000 jobs across the UK, as well as providing crucial funding for many of the nation’s most popular sports.

The campaign underscores the importance of the UK’s regulated betting and gaming framework, which is built on player safety, transparency, and integrity. It aims to show just how easily consumers can be deceived by illegal alternatives.

A BGC spokesperson said:

“This campaign is about exposing the hidden dangers of the black market. These unregulated sites deliberately mimic trusted brands but play by none of the rules that keep people safe. The Black Market: Spot The Difference campaign forms part of the BGC’s wider commitment to raising standards and promoting safer gambling, complementing major industry initiatives such as Safer Gambling Week.”

Watch the video now and stay tuned for more.