Unlicensed online casinos are exploiting the brand and images of Tesco by promoting a deceptive gambling site as the so-called official Tesco casino, prompting Tesco to report the matter to law enforcement and cybercrime agencies. This Facebook page utilized Tesco's logos and described its games as being akin to those found in Tesco Extra outlets.
The fraudulent casino claims to be operating in the UK, aiming to capitalize on Tesco's established reputation in the country. This issue extends beyond just Tesco; Barclays has also been referenced in an advertisement featuring Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton. Moreover, ads have emerged on Facebook and Instagram touting 'Monzo slots' while using the Monzo brand logo.
Barclays has stated that it is not responsible for the advertisement and is actively taking measures against the unauthorized use of its intellectual property. Monzo described the situation as an 'AI-based scam' targeting banking consumers.
Other instances have surfaced, such as Rainbet, a cryptocurrency casino, featuring a look-alike of football player Erling Haaland as a croupier. Names like Coral, Gala Bingo, Jude Bellingham, and Bruno Fernandes have also been misappropriated in similar advertising schemes.
Both the UK Gambling Commission and the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) are cognizant of the situation. The Gambling Commission emphasized that illegal gambling activities pose a significant threat and described the use of reputable brands to mislead individuals into unlicensed casino games as particularly manipulative.
The regulator is collaborating with the ASA and anticipates gaining enhanced enforcement powers in the autumn under the Crime and Policing Bill.
