Offshore Gambling Network Adjusts Licensing Amid Increasing UK Oversight
Offshore Gambling Network Adopts New Licensing Amid UK Scrutiny
A collective of offshore gambling websites favored by UK players has recently altered its licensing framework, now operating under a license based in Curaao. This move coincides with heightened attention from regulators, journalists, and advocacy groups focusing on these unregulated platforms.
Shift to Curaao Licenses Following Investigations
The network, which includes well-known brands such as MyStake, Velobet, Donbet, and Goldenbet, has long operated outside of the United Kingdom’s official regulatory system. These sites tend to attract bettors seeking alternatives to the UKs GamStop self-exclusion scheme. Previously linked to a Curaao-based entity named Santeda International, they now list a new company, GTW B.V., that acquired a local business-to-consumer license last year.
Industry experts explain that relocating corporate licenses and permits is a common practice among offshore betting operators. This strategy enables these businesses to continue functioning while distancing themselves from regulatory pressures. Curaaos licensing framework allows companies to remain operational even when official records suggest license renewals have lapsed.
This licensing shift follows reports highlighting the extensive reach of the unregulated network within the UK market. It is estimated that British users wagered billions of pounds on these sites during 2025, with MyStake accounting for a substantial share of this activity.
Aside from financial concerns, the group has faced criticism for its handling of vulnerable gamblers. GAMRS, a support organization for affected players, has collected accounts revealing questionable practices such as bombarding users with promotional material despite their requests to stop, complicating account closures, and aggressively encouraging continued betting.
Growth of Illegal Betting Platforms Targeting Vulnerable Gamblers
Findings from GAMRS reflect broader apprehensions uncovered in recent media investigations. These probe offshore gambling sites that often profit by targeting individuals seeking to cease gambling, commonly advertised with terms like “not on GamStop,” steering users away from regulated UK operators to less regulated platforms.
Authorities monitoring illegal online gambling confirm that this segment has expanded significantly in recent years, now comprising a major portion of unauthorized betting services accessed by UK players.
The adverse impact on affected families has also been exposed. Many have shared how offshore gambling websites have undermined their efforts to recover from addiction by offering easy gambling access with minimal safeguards. Advocates emphasize that the lack of stringent oversight facilitates the persistence of harmful business models.
In response to the growing black market, UK regulators have increased funding for enforcement initiatives and partnered with technology firms to remove unlicensed operators from search engines and social media channels. While hundreds of sites have been reportedly blocked or closed recently, critics argue these actions are insufficient. As offshore groups continue to modify their licensing and corporate identities, regulators in the UK and Curaao face mounting pressure to tighten regulations and close loopholes that allow these controversial operators to remain active.
