As the popularity of online gambling continues to grow in the UK, more and more players are seeking out non Gamstop casinos to play at. But the question remains: are non Gamstop casinos legal?
Let’s unpack what reputable licensing authorities based in Europe and other parts of the world say about their operations.
The Gambling Act 2005
In 2005, Great Britain passed the Gambling Act, which regulates all forms of gambling in the UK. Under the Act, all gambling operators who provide services to UK citizens must be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Some of the laws were about fair play, money laundering, and protecting vulnerable players.
In 2014, the Act was changed to include new rules that require operators of online gambling to get a license from the UK Gambling Commission. These regulations ensured that online gambling operators provided a safe and fair environment for UK players, as well as prevented underage gambling, reducing the risk of problem gambling. These changes aimed to provide better protection for consumers and increase revenue for the government.
The Legal Status of Non Gamstop Casinos in the UK
Non Gamstop casinos are online casinos that are not registered in the UK, meaning they don’t need to abide by the UKGC’s guidelines. Since the Act sets rules for responsible gambling, casinos that are not part of GamStop are still required to follow those rules, but they are not forced to do so. One thing they are strict about is underage gambling, which is illegal in the UK.
In Europe, the UK Gambling Commission is the main licensing authority, but there are other reputable licensing authorities based in other parts of the world. These include the Malta Gaming Authority which is a well-known and trustworthy licensing body. Both of these licensing authorities are known for having strict rules and high standards for online gambling operators. They provide a level of oversight and protection for players, ensuring that online casinos operate fairly and responsibly.
Conclusion
It is legal to register for a new account at a non-Gamstop casino in the UK since gambling is legal. However, UK players must be over the age of 18 and be aware that they may not receive the support they might get at UKGC-regulated casinos. Non Gamstop casinos are usually licensed by offshore authorities, so players should be careful when choosing to play at these sites.
