Defining and estimating the illegal gambling market: A scoping review

Abstract

This scoping review systematically examines the definitions, challenges, and methodologies for estimating the illegal gambling market, spanning literature from 2000 to 2023. Given the clandestine nature of illegal gambling and its significant economic and social implications, understanding its scope and scale is paramount for effective policy formulation and enforcement. Through a methodical analysis of 31 selected studies, this review highlights the complexity of defining illegal gambling activities, underscored by legal, cultural, and regulatory disparities across jurisdictions. Challenges identified include consumer protection, fraud, organized crime, economic and financial impacts, and regulatory obstacles. The review distinguishes between bottom-up and top-down estimation methodologies, revealing their respective strengths and limitations in capturing the nuances of the illegal gambling market. The juxtaposition of these methodologies suggests a need for a combined approach to achieve a more comprehensive and accurate estimation. This study emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, methodological innovation, and international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by illegal gambling markets.