On 10 July 2025, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced a significant escalation in its fight against financial crime, reporting the closure or blocking of over 1,600 websites suspected of promoting unauthorised financial services in 2024. In partnership with major technology platforms, the regulator also oversaw the removal of more than 50 apps from Google Play and the App Store, following concerns about unlicensed or misleading financial promotions. These actions are part of a data-driven strategy targeting both online operators and rogue affiliates, with implications for payment providers and gambling firms relying on non-compliant marketing channels.
The FCA’s latest enforcement activities reflect a broader effort to raise standards within the financial and gaming industries. In addition to website and app closures, the regulator intervened in nearly 20,000 non-compliant financial promotions last year, requiring amendments or withdrawal by authorised firms. The FCA has also cancelled the authorisation of over 1,500 firms—20% more than in 2023 and over three times the number recorded in 2021. The authority issued 2,240 alerts targeting unauthorised companies and individuals, and interviewed 20 so-called ‘finfluencers’ under caution for unlawful promotion of financial products, issuing 38 specific warnings against social media accounts.
Enforcement highlights:
- Closure or blocking of 1,600+ websites and over 50 mobile apps
- Amendment or withdrawal of almost 20,000 non-compliant promotions
- Cancellation of 1,500+ firm authorisations and £45.5m fines against two banks for financial crime failings
- 2,240 public alerts about unauthorised activity
- Targeting of influencers and misleading financial content on social media
In addition to combatting financial crime, the FCA’s wider initiatives in 2024–2025 included implementing Consumer Duty reforms, introducing anti-greenwashing rules, and improving cash service access in 200 communities. These measures contributed to an estimated £70 million in consumer savings through work on GAP insurance products.
The regulator’s leadership emphasised the increased use of technology and data in enforcement. “We’ve embraced data and technology to crack down on harm and ensure high standards,” commented Nikhil Rathi, Chief Executive of the FCA. Ashley Alder, Chair of the FCA, added: “Our annual report shows how we’ve laid the strongest possible foundation from which to implement our new strategy.”
Tighter regulatory scrutiny may affect UK casinos and payment providers—especially those utilising unlicensed affiliates or unauthorised payment channels for withdrawals. Players and operators are advised to stay updated on regulatory changes and ensure all promotions and withdrawal methods comply with current UK standards.
| FCA Action | Type | Outcome (2024-2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Website/App Removals | Enforcement | 1,600+ sites & 50+ apps blocked |
| Authorisation Withdrawals | Compliance | 1,500+ firms’ permissions revoked |
| Non-compliant Promotions | Monitoring | 20,000 amended or withdrawn |
For further reading on safe withdrawals, recognised payment methods, and regulatory developments in the UK, see the following resources:
- Using E-wallets to Bet Online in the UK
- Common Issues with Casino Withdrawals
- Fast Payout Casinos
- Withdrawal Methods Overview
- Safe Online Casinos UK
Sources: FCA press release, July 2025
