A YouGov survey backed by Entain has found that three in four Brits cannot distinguish the difference between regulated and illegal gambling platforms.
2,000 adults were surveyed, with 80% stating that they would not use black market betting websites if they were aware - but 74% of respondents were unsure how to differentiate between an illegal gambling platform and a UK-licensed online casino or bookmaker.
Out of those surveyed, one in three said that the government is not doing enough to combat illegal operators and protect the general public.
UK and Ireland Managing Director of Entain, Bejay Patel, shared: “This research reveals a genuinely concerning gap between consumer confidence and consumer reality.
“People are confident they would avoid illegal operators, yet most cannot reliably identify them online. Nearly three-quarters of UK adults are sitting ducks for illegal operators to exploit major sporting events such as the World Cup.
“The UK’s regulated gambling market offers some of the strongest consumer protections in the world. The illegal market offers none of these safeguards, leaving people exposed to fraud, unfair treatment and serious harm.”
The campaign has ramped up since the start of this summer’s World Cup, with influencer social media star Big John part of the campaign to help to boost awareness of the issue.
Patel continued: “With the World Cup now underway, it is more important than ever that we raise awareness of these risks. Our campaign with Big John is designed to do exactly that, reaching audiences where illegal operators are most active and providing clear, simple information to help them stay safe.”
