The gambling supplier said six unlicensed websites had carried its games and that it moved to cut off the traffic once the issue was found.
The proposed payment would resolve historical compliance failings, while trading in the year remained ahead of expectations.
The think tank says local services miss early warning signs, as referrals to NHS gambling clinics have risen sharply.
Luke Ashton’s widow and family say the firm should have stepped in as his losses rose, while Betfair denies it owed him any such duty.
Ministers are moving after delays, pressure from industry and Everton’s Stake deal.
The city-centre venue shut briefly for the handover, with jobs and a relaunch plan left intact.
The commission says most assessments will be invisible to customers, but critics warn the plan could push some gambling underground.
The site pairs a broad game library with promotions, payment options and account controls.
The council wants social platforms, search engines and payment firms pulled into a wider crackdown on unlicensed operators.