Unibet taken to task by the UKGC
Responsible gambling is of huge importance to us (Unibet too), so we always take note when we see consumer watchdogs out there. Acting on behalf of players to make the industry a safer place for us all. And that’s exactly what happened recently when the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) took Unibet to task over its anti-money laundering and social responsibility processes.
In addition to being levied a fine of £10 million. Unibet will also need to undergo auditing by a third party to ensure that its AML and gambling policies meet industry standards.
What prompted the penalty and the subsequent audit? According to the UKGC’s findings, customers who had had their accounts closed prior to 2023 were able to open new accounts and place wagers. In addition, the site’s customer interaction system fails to flag a player losing more than £16,000 in less than three months. This, along with unclear customer due diligence practices, results in Unibet being penalized. For the second time since its £2.9 million infraction in 2023. Also for AML and social responsibility practices.
Here’s what Unibet has to say
John Pierce, UKGC’s Director of Enforcement, explains: “The case revealed serious shortcomings in customer interaction systems. Including failures to identify and act on clear markers of harm. These included consumers losing thousands within hours or days of registration. Repeatedly breaching loss limits, and exhibiting patterns of binge and high-velocity gambling without appropriate intervention.
“Significant anti-money laundering failures were also identified. These included gaps in the licensee’s risk assessment, which failed to account for previously blocked accounts linked to money laundering concerns, and a lack of clarity in the AML policy around due diligence thresholds. Unibet has a hold.
“Senior leaders must take ownership of compliance outcomes and ensure lessons are embedded across the organization. Supported by structured reporting and board-level oversight. And further regulatory activity will remain a possibility.” This is Unibet for you.
We commend the UKGC on its commitment to player safety. And we look forward to seeing more responsible gambling initiatives taking place in the future.