A new investigation suggests AI chatbots may steer users toward illegal gambling websites. The analysis by The Guardian and Investigate Europe tested five tools from OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, Meta, and xAI and found they recommended unlicensed offshore casinos.
The findings indicate that generative AI systems can provide information that circumvents legal safeguards. This raises concerns about the technology’s role in facilitating access to unregulated gambling markets and circumventing user protections.
Researchers prompted the chatbots with questions about online casinos and gambling restrictions. The bots returned lists of unlicensed sites and tips on using them. Some suggested ways to bypass the UK’s GamStop self-exclusion scheme. The systems highlighted features like large bonuses, quick payouts, and cryptocurrency use at casinos in jurisdictions like Curaçao with minimal oversight.
OpenAI stated that ChatGPT is designed to refuse requests that facilitate illegal behavior. Microsoft said its Copilot assistant includes safeguards to prevent harmful recommendations. Regulators in the UK have warned that online platforms, including AI services, must prevent harmful or illegal content under the Online Safety Act.
The investigation was conducted by journalists at The Guardian and Investigate Europe. The test involved five AI tools from major tech companies. The findings add to scrutiny over how generative AI handles sensitive topics.
