UKGC Issues Immediate Suspension of BGO Entertainment's License

The UK Gambling Commission has suspended online casino BGO and its sister brands while it carries out a review into its suitability to hold a license, having considered that the company is “failing to protect consumers”.

BGO is an online gambling firm that owns sites such as bgo.com, m.bgo.com, vegasluck.com, powerspins.com and chilli.com.

The UKGC regulates the gambling sector in the UK and has the authority to suspend regulated online casinos and sportsbooks it believes has breached the Gambling Act 2005.

Specifically, it is concerned “the licensee may be unsuitable to carry on the licensed activities”.

“We have made it clear to the operator that during the course of the suspension, we expect it to focus on treating consumers fairly and keeping them fully informed of any developments which impact them,” the statement read.

The suspension comes into immediate effect, which means players heading to BGO’s sites will be unable to play their range of games.

What BGO Suspension Means For Players

In a statement the UKGC concluded: “Failing to protect consumers was a key consideration in the suspension decision”.

And the homepage of BGO’s PowerSpins website states that “it is with regret that we have to inform you that UK players are not currently permitted to access any of our services”.

But what does this mean for customers who have funds locked in one of BGO’s accounts?

According to the GC “the suspension does not prevent the operator from allowing consumers to access their accounts and withdrawing funds”.

It means customers can still:

• Access websites such as PowerSpins, Vegas Luck and Chilli
• Log in to their online profiles
• Withdraw any funds from within player accounts

However, customers cannot:

• Play any BGO casino game or live table
• Access casino promotions
• Make deposits

The UK government is currently reviewing the Gambling Act 2005 in order to bring it up to date with online casinos and sports betting, which has grown in popularity since the last time legislation on gambling was updated.

Changes to legislation aren’t expected to take place until 2022.