ProgressPlay has once again come under scrutiny from the UK Gambling Commission (GC). The regulator has imposed a £1 million fine due to significant shortcomings in anti-money laundering (AML) practices and adherence to social responsibility obligations.
Repeat Offences Raise Alarm
The Malta-based company operates a vast network of white-label casinos and sportsbooks. It was sanctioned in 2022 for similar breaches and was issued to pay £175,718. The latest investigation by the Gambling Commission found that ProgressPlay had failed to implement adequate risk assessments and failed to monitor customer activity efficiently despite earlier warnings.
Between August 2021 and August 2024, the regulator found that the business had overlooked crucial checks. such as examining customer transactions and implementing safeguards during the account opening process. This included safeguarding measures which are essential in the prevention of money laundering and minimising gambling-related harm. These measures are crucial requirements for UKGC license holders.
Gambling Commission Response
John Pierce, Director of Enforcement and Intelligence at the GC, said:
“Operators should be in no doubt: repeated regulatory breaches will result in increasingly severe enforcement action. We urge all operators to examine the failings identified in this case and take proactive steps to strengthen their own systems and controls.”
In addition to the financial penalty, ProgressPlay is required to undergo an independent audit to demonstrate that corrective measures have been implemented.
Wider Compliance Issues
This is not the first instance where ProgressPlay’s practices have raised concerns. Operating brands including JeffBet, the company was previously criticised by the Advertising Standards Authority in 2024 for not communicating the terms related to a free bet promotion.
What This Means for ProgressPlay
The recent sanction highlights the UKGC’s firm position on ongoing compliance failures. For ProgressPlay, the penalty and required audit represent a financial loss. They also serve as a solemn reminder that future violations could result in harsher consequences.