The Gambling Commission have fined online betting firms £14m in an attempt to crackdown on serious problems in the industry.
They uncovered that online gambling companies were failing to effectively protect problem gamblers and prevent money laundering.
Figures from the National Gambling Helpline recorded an increase in problem gamblers from 22,875 in 2013-14, to 29,889 in 2017-18.
Duty
Last month, the Gambling Commission announced that they were taking action against 19 online companies. These included Casumo, Videoslots and Daub Alderney.
Daub Alderney, which runs sites such as Magical Vegas, was charged the biggest fine of £7.1m.
A fourth company, CZ Holdings, surrendered its right to provide a gambling service in the UK, and more firms remain under investigation.
Secretary for the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Jeremy Wright, said: “Any online operator that thinks it can ignore its duty to protect players should take note today – there will be consequences”.
Strong action
Wright continued: “Protecting vulnerable consumers is our prime concern, and it must be the priority for gambling operators too.
“There are robust requirements to safeguard players and prevent money-laundering which all businesses must adhere to if they wish to operate in the British market.
“I am pleased to see the Gambling Commission taking the strongest possible action when companies fail to meet their obligations.”