TLDR
- Investigate Europe tested leading AI chatbots across 10 European countries over two weeks
- MetaAI recommended unlicensed casinos in 27 of 30 prompts; Gemini in 26; ChatGPT in 22
- Chatbots advised users on bypassing self-exclusion schemes like the UK’s Gamstop
- One chatbot called “no-ID casinos” the “Holy Grail” and promoted crypto casinos for anonymity
- Regulators, charities, and an EU Parliament member have raised concerns about the findings
An investigation by Investigate Europe found that popular AI chatbots are regularly directing users to unlicensed online casinos across Europe. The probe tested several leading AI models over two weeks using prompts about bonuses, anonymous platforms, and ways to get around national self-exclusion schemes.
The results showed that chatbots overwhelmingly recommended offshore gambling sites without domestic licences. Some of those sites appeared on official European gambling regulators’ blacklists.
Across 10 European countries, researchers used 30 prompts per platform. MetaAI recommended an unlicensed casino in 27 of those prompts. Gemini came in at 26, and ChatGPT at 22.
France and Poland led the country-level breakdown, each receiving 18 recommendations for unlicensed casinos out of 21 prompts. The UK received 14 such recommendations.
Many of the chatbot responses repeated marketing language from offshore operators. These operators are often based in places like Curaçao, which is known for lighter regulatory oversight.
Chatbots Helped Users Bypass Gambling Safeguards
When users asked how to avoid self-exclusion schemes, chatbots pointed them to casinos not covered by those systems. This includes tools like the UK’s Gamstop program, which is designed to help people with gambling problems.
One chatbot described “no-ID casinos” as the “Holy Grail.” It suggested these sites as a way around identity checks.
Crypto-based casinos were also promoted. Chatbots highlighted their anonymity and lack of betting limits as selling points.
Regulators and gambling addiction charities have said the findings are alarming. They are concerned that AI tools could make it easier for vulnerable people to access harmful, unregulated platforms.
Tiemo Wölken, a member of the European Parliament, called the findings “worrying.”
The Scale of Unlicensed Gambling in Europe
Illegal online gambling is already a large market in Europe. A recent survey found that 65% of Swedes did not know how to spot an unlicensed operator. Another 18% said they had used one.
The UK government is also working to crack down on unlicensed operators that sponsor sports teams.
Will Prochaska, spokesperson for the UK Coalition to End Gambling Ads, said that “promoting and praising illegal casinos for their ability to circumvent regulations undermines the rule of law and puts people in danger.”
Campaigners are calling for both legal and technical responses to the issue.
