German Watchdog Reports Only One in Twelve Gambling Sites Operating Legally
Illegal Gambling Sites Outnumber Licensed Operators in Germany
With the kickoff of the Champions League soccer season, the German Sports Betting Association (DSWV) has raised alarms about the prevalence of illegal gambling websites in Germany. These unlicensed platforms far exceed the number of legally authorized operators, exposing players to significant risks such as fraud, gambling addiction, and potential legal consequences. The regulator reports that merely one out of every twelve gambling websites is legally operating under German law.
Current Landscape of Gambling Regulation in Germany
The concerning data comes from the DSWV in conjunction with the Joint Gambling Authority of the federal states (GGL). As the Champions League begins, there are approximately 382 illegal gambling sites active in Germany, compared to only 34 licensed operators who comply with tax obligations and stringent regulatory standards.
Mathias Dahms, the president of the DSWV, highlights the benefits offered by legal betting markets, including consumer protections, guaranteed payouts, and contributions to public tax revenue. Conversely, illegal operators function without any oversight, placing gamblers at higher risk for addiction and other dangers.
Legal Risks and Consumer Protection
Using unlicensed gambling platforms is considered a criminal act under German legislation, which can lead to fines or even imprisonment for individuals participating in unauthorized betting services. Dahms emphasizes that only licensed operators provide a secure and responsibly regulated environment for bettors in Germany.
He also warns gamblers to exercise increased vigilance during major sporting events like the Champions League, as the temptation or inadvertent access to illegal providers may rise. Promoting legal operators through visible advertising during such events is crucial to help players make informed, safe choices.
Measures Against Illegal Gambling Operations
Authorities are actively combating the proliferation of illegal gambling sites. Recently, the DSWV called for an urgent crackdown on unauthorized gambling activities across Germany. According to the latest annual report from the GGL, there have been 231 enforcement actions in 2024 aimed at illegal gambling operators and their marketing efforts.
Throughout the year, 188 unlicensed online gambling providers have ceased operations in the German market, thanks in part to measures like payment blocking. A total of 43 payment service providers responded effectively by stopping transactions related to these illicit platforms.
Ensuring Transparency and Support for Bettors
German regulators maintain a digital whitelist that lists officially licensed gambling operators, allowing users to confirm whether a platform is legally authorized within Germany. Licensed companies must display their official permits and documentation, accessible via the Joint Gambling Authority of the German States’ platform.
This platform also serves as a valuable resource for information on the social, psychological, medical, legal, and economic aspects linked to gambling in Germany, supporting awareness and responsible gaming practices.
