The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has raised concerns over the growing prevalence of illegal online gambling in the European market. Members of the association, which represents the leading online gaming operators in Europe, have called for stricter regulations to combat this growing problem.
According to recent reports, the online gambling market in Europe is worth billions of euros, with a significant portion of that revenue coming from illegal operators. These unlicensed operators are often based in offshore jurisdictions and are not subject to the same regulations and oversight as their licensed counterparts. This poses a major risk to consumers, as they may not receive the same level of protection and security when using these illegal websites.
The EGBA has warned that the rise of illegal online gambling not only hurts the licensed operators who are complying with regulations, but also poses a threat to the integrity of the industry as a whole. Illegal operators may engage in fraudulent activities, such as money laundering or match-fixing, which can tarnish the reputation of the entire online gambling sector.
Furthermore, the EGBA has also expressed concerns about the impact of illegal gambling on society, particularly in terms of problem gambling. Licensed operators are required to adhere to strict responsible gaming measures, such as age verification checks and self-exclusion tools, to prevent harm to vulnerable individuals. However, illegal operators may not have these measures in place, leading to an increased risk of harm for problem gamblers.
In response to these concerns, the EGBA is calling for greater cooperation between regulators and law enforcement agencies to crack down on illegal online gambling. The association is also advocating for stricter penalties for those who operate illegal gambling websites, in order to deter others from engaging in this illicit activity.
In a statement, Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of the EGBA, said, “Illegal online gambling is a growing problem in Europe, and it is imperative that we take action to combat this trend. Not only does illegal gambling harm consumers and legitimate operators, but it also undermines the integrity of the entire industry. We urge regulators and authorities to work together to tackle this issue and ensure a safe and regulated online gambling market for all.”
As the online gambling market continues to grow, it is essential that steps are taken to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of the industry. The EGBA’s concerns over illegal gambling highlight the need for stronger regulations and enforcement measures to safeguard the European market.
