Evolution–Playtech Dispute Deepens with New Evidence in Legal Battle
New Developments in Evolution and Playtech Legal Dispute
The prolonged legal conflict between Evolution and Playtech has taken an unexpected turn in New Jersey. Recently submitted sworn testimony by the investigative firm Black Cube introduces new technical evidence that could significantly impact regulatory and judicial perspectives on the case.
Black Cube Refocuses Allegations Toward Evolution
Central to the latest filing is an affidavit from Dr. Avi Yanus, director at Black Cube. He claims that Evolution’s live casino content remained accessible in multiple restricted markets well into 2025. Countries listed include Iran, France, Russia, Singapore, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom, with some access occurring without the use of VPNs or location-masking technologies.
Yanus explains that their investigative methods mirrored those used by law enforcement and intelligence agencies, such as IP verification and recorded betting activity. He further asserts that most of the original findings brought to regulators have not been disputed by Evolution, countering the company’s public denials that the accusations are either false or deceptive.
This new information could alter the understanding of Playtech’s involvement. While Evolution has accused Playtech of running a smear campaign, Playtech maintains it acted responsibly upon credible regulatory breach warnings and presents its hiring of Black Cube as a measure to address potential sanctions and compliance risks.
Potential Impact of Accusations Against Evolution
Documents submitted to the court depict a complicated scenario. Playtech reportedly paid over GBP 1.8 million (approximately $2.4 million) to Black Cube from 2021 to 2024 for a confidential operation targeting Evolution. Witnesses revealed that Black Cube operatives, pretending to be investors or potential partners, covertly engaged with current and former Evolution employees and recorded these interactions, some of which were edited and included in regulatory filings.
Evolution steadfastly denies all claims, labeling the report as false, defamatory, and driven by commercial motives. The company insists these actions intend to damage its reputation and distort competitive dynamics rather than expose legitimate regulatory violations. Evolution has committed to pursuing all legal avenues against Playtech, Black Cube, and involved parties.
Despite Evolution’s denials, the recent affidavit poses significant risks, potentially inviting renewed scrutiny from gambling regulators across various European countries. It also raises concerns regarding Evolution’s compliance with anti-money laundering and sanctions laws, areas likely to draw the attention of international financial regulatory bodies.
