5 February 2026
Meta Platforms is under fire from UK gambling regulators for allegedly allowing unlicensed gambling operators to advertise to millions of users, potentially putting vulnerable players at risk. Black market sites are appearing on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, according to executive director of the UKGC Tim Miller.
More than €385,000 has been donated to safer gambling organisations so far during ICE, the world’s largest annual trade show for the global gaming and gambling industry, which is taking place in Barcelona this week. The issue remains top of mind for many mature markets around Europe.
In a speech marking the 90th anniversary of Brazil’s minimum wage being implemented, President Lula Da Silva placed the sports betting industry in the crosshairs of his comments. Indicating he would support the involvement by the Central Bank in regulating online betting sites, Da Silva also criticised the rapid growth of the sector.
Nevada has launched a civil enforcement action against Blockratize, the corporate entity behind prediction market platform Polymarket, escalating a sector-wide battle over how such platforms should be classified under U.S. law. At the heart of the dispute is a fundamental disagreement. State regulators are increasingly treating prediction markets as a form of gambling.
California DOJ seized 26 slot-style betting terminals at Santa Anita days after launch, escalating a legal fight over gambling enforcement and tribal exclusivity.
Illinois lawmakers have introduced bills to block Chicago’s proposed sports betting tax, setting up a direct clash over control of wagering revenue.
Ukraine has ordered ISPs to block Polymarket, citing unlicensed activity and concerns over war-related prediction markets.
European operator ComeOn has been dealt a hefty fine for failure to prevent excessive gambling among its customer base. The betting site was asked to provide the player files on ten young adult individuals with high losses. Dutch gambling regulators, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), found comprehensive issues in each file.
Mississippi lawmakers have filed SB 2104 to target online sweepstakes casinos, introducing felony penalties and expanded forfeiture powers.
Maine’s online casino bill has passed both chambers of the legislature but now awaits a critical decision from Governor Janet Mills in early 2026.
