SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has issued a warning to players of online scratchcard games about a new money-making scheme that could result in them promoting an illegal lottery.
The warning comes after the Gambling Commission was alerted to plans for a system which involved customers paying a monthly fee in return for digital scratchcards.
Customers are also told they will receive more scratchcards in return for encouraging others to take part – but by doing this the player may commit the offence of promoting an illegal lottery. Under the Gambling Act 2005, the penalty could be up to 51 weeks in jail and/or a fine.
Nick Tofiluk, Commission director of regulation, said: “The law is quite clear on this matter – you cannot promote a lottery for private or commercial gain.
“We would advise anyone thinking about taking part in any scheme that involves purchasing, or encouraging others to purchase, online scratchcards to think very carefully before promoting an illegal lottery to others.”
Anyone wanting to promote a lottery in Britain must either have a gambling licence from the Gambling Commission or be registered with their local licensing authority
