UK gaming regulators are now set to take an interesting step — exploring the possibility of enabling crypto payments for licensed betting operators. Executive Director Tim Miller highlighted a real issue behind this plan — many British gamers are researching digital assets, and that interest is leading them toward illegal crypto betting sites.

Miller stated that their research shows that crypto is one of the two biggest reasons why British gamers turn to unapproved platforms. It’s a challenging situation — where consumer demand is increasing, but the regulated market still cannot meet that demand.
This proposal is linked to the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (CryptoAssets) Regulations 2025, which was introduced in Parliament in December. If approved, crypto assets will come under FCA oversight, and new regulations are expected to take effect in October 2027.
Miller clarified that this is not about completely rejecting innovation but rather about “finding a path of possibility.” The commission is asking its industry partners how crypto payment systems can be implemented to prevent money laundering and meet consumer protection standards.
In his view, giving regulated operators the opportunity to accept crypto means keeping consumers on legitimate platforms and not pushing them toward foreign unapproved sites. However, this does not mean any offshore crypto casino will be able to operate in the UK. All operators will need to comply with existing gaming rules and the upcoming FCA requirements — including strict due diligence, compliance, and customer identity verification standards.
Over the past few years, the commission has stepped up enforcement against illegal betting sites and received additional funding. But now they realize that enforcement alone is not enough — they need a more strategic approach to keep consumers on the right path. Adding crypto payment options could be a key part of that strategy.