UKGC: "successfully shuts down illegal Facebook lotteries"
GAIN and the UKGC have clamped down on illegal Facebook lotteries
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has announced the results of an investigation that has seen the disruption of illegal lotteries operating on Facebook.
They have been working with the Government Agency Intelligence Network (GAIN) and specialists from the social networking platform to focus on this topic.
What are Facebook lotteries?
These lotteries include a variety of cash prizes, children's toys and clothing that are up for grabs in a raffle or lottery usually found in community groups on Facebook.
The Facebook lotteries may seem innocent, but they are harmful to consumers and vulnerable people as there is often no licence attached and many scams attached.
“Identify those who were organising,” says UKGC
Helen Venn, executive director of the Gambling Commission said: “There were hundreds of people taking part in these lotteries but it was important to identify those who were organising and moderating them illegally.”
Venn added: “Working alongside our colleagues at Facebook and the police, we are pleased that key individuals have been identified and this type of activity, which only increases the risk of gambling harm, has been disrupted.
She concluded by stating that the UKGC will work closely with Facebook to find those who are breaching gambling rules and social media standards.
“Help assist in the disruption of illegal lotteries,” says GAIN
David Gill, GAIN Coordinator at the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit said: “We will continue to support the Gambling Commission in targeting and disrupting people profiting from such illegal schemes.”
He stated: “Work like this shows the value and absolute necessity of the full range of enforcement agencies working together as part of the GAIN network.”
The GAIN Coordinator based at the North East Regional Special Operations Unit, Kevin Benson, also added: “It’s important to acknowledge the harm illegal gambling can cause, especially when unregulated lotteries like these benefit from targeting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, especially those caught up in a cycle of addiction.”
Benson concluded: “We will continue to work alongside our partners and help assist in the disruption of illegal lotteries and other gambling platforms.”
If you want additional information on responsible gambling, be sure to check out our responsible gambling page.