Investigation Finds Illegal Offshore Casino Network Targeting UK Players
A joint investigation by The Guardian and Investigate Europe has uncovered a network of unlicensed online casinos targeting UK players. They were noted to use offshore structures, affiliate marketing and regulatory loopholes to bypass restrictions.
The highly detailed report identifies several connected brands, all of which were accessible in the UK despite lacking a Gambling Commission licence. Data cited in the investigation indicates the sites attracted an average of 2.3 million monthly UK users between the period of November 2025 and January 2026.
The Evidence
Affiliate sites appear to have played a key role in driving traffic to the network, promoting casinos that sit outside the GamStop self-exclusion system. That created a clear workaround. People who had taken steps to block their gambling were still able to find offshore platforms with a simple search.
Many of these operators are based in jurisdictions like Curaçao, where transparency rules are far looser, making oversight more difficult.
The risks for vulnerable users come through clearly. In one example, a self-excluded player managed to return to gambling after looking for ways around the restrictions. Losses mounted quickly, and delays in processing withdrawals only made the situation worse.
The report also points to a recent inquest, which found that unlicensed operators formed part of the circumstances leading to the death of a 36-year-old man. It adds weight to the argument that this is not just a regulatory issue, but one with wider public health consequences.
Questions have also emerged about the network’s ownership and structure. The investigation points to links between the Santeda group, software provider Upgaming and several Georgian businessmen. While no direct ownership has been confirmed, domain registrations for multiple sites were reportedly made via Upgaming or in the name of its chief executive.
Upgaming has strongly denied operating the network and stated it has ended any association with Santeda, citing concerns over activity in unregulated markets.
Financial links outlined in the report suggest that funds connected to offshore gambling operations may be flowing into real estate developments, including a project in Tbilisi. This has raised concerns that profits generated from UK users are being channelled abroad while the social impact remains within Britain.
Increased Enforcement?
UK policymakers have long called for stronger enforcement and improved international cooperation. The Gambling Commission has reportedly issued takedown requests and taken action against affiliate sites, though many of the platforms remained accessible from the UK at the time of publication.
The findings are likely to intensify scrutiny on the online gambling sector, as regulators face mounting pressure to close loopholes and strengthen consumer protections.
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