Unlicensed online casinos are exploiting the branding and imagery of well-known retailer Tesco, leading to a referral to police and cybercrime authorities. A Facebook page has been promoting a site labeled as "the official Tesco casino," featuring the supermarket's logos and claiming that its games are akin to those found in Tesco Extra stores.
These fraudulent operations pretend to operate in the UK, capitalizing on Tesco's strong reputation in Britain. However, Tesco is not the sole victim. Barclays has also been targeted, with ads showcasing the bank's name alongside F1 driver Lewis Hamilton's image. Similarly, Facebook and Instagram ads have appeared featuring references to "Monzo slots" that misuse Monzo's brand logo.
Barclays has clarified that it is not associated with this advertisement and is actively addressing the unauthorized use of its intellectual property. Monzo described the situation as an "AI-based scam" targeting banking customers.
The issue extends beyond these companies, with examples like Rainbet, a crypto casino, reportedly featuring a lookalike of Erling Haaland as a croupier. Brands such as Coral and Gala Bingo, along with personalities like Jude Bellingham and Bruno Fernandes, have also been co-opted in similar advertising schemes.
Both the UK Gambling Commission and the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) are aware of these fraudulent activities. The Gambling Commission indicated that illegal gambling activities are a significant concern, particularly the use of established brands to deceive individuals into engaging with unlicensed casino products. They are collaborating with the ASA and anticipate gaining additional enforcement capabilities in the autumn as part of the Crime and Policing Bill.
