The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has suspended Spribe OÜ’s operating license after discovering serious non-compliance with its hosting requirements. The regulator said the suspension was imposed on grounds of suitability. This followed Spribe’s failure to meet the technical and regulatory standards for hosting remote casino games.
Suspension and Legal Context
Effective immediately, Spribe must halt all hosting activities in Great Britain until the suspension is lifted and a new license is issued. Under UK law, suppliers who host casino games on their own servers must hold both a remote casino game host license and a gambling software license. They allow access through an operator’s platform.
Moreover, the Commission reminded that providing such services without authorization could amount to a criminal offense under Section 33 of the Gambling Act 2005. It is punishable by fines or imprisonment. As part of the enforcement action, the UKGC has also launched a formal review of Spribe’s license and operations.
Spribe Responds to the Breach
Spribe acknowledged the issue and described it as a technical oversight in its licensing process. The company clarified that although it obtained a remote gambling software license in 2020, it had not applied separately for the newly required remote casino host license.
In its statement, Spribe emphasized that it is taking the matter “extremely seriously.” It is now preparing a corrective application to close the licensing gap and restore operations. Additionally, Spribe reaffirmed its commitment to compliance, transparency, and software integrity. The company is cooperating fully with the regulator to resolve the issue promptly.
Importantly, the company confirmed that the suspension does not impact player accounts or withdrawals. Thus, users can still access their funds safely.
Market Impact and Ongoing Review
Spribe’s popular Aviator crash-style game remains one of the most played titles in Europe, with tens of millions of users each month across thousands of online casino platforms. Consequently, the suspension may cause short-term disruptions for several operator partners.
The Gambling Commission reiterated its expectation that all licensed suppliers uphold the highest standards of integrity and compliance. It also urged operators to notify players and partners promptly of any service interruptions related to the enforcement action.
Spribe first received its UK gambling software license in December 2020. The company now faces a crucial compliance review. This will determine whether its hosting privileges can be reinstated under the stricter regulatory regime.
