German Regulator Warns Players Against Unlicensed Gambling Platforms

On Gambling Addiction Action Day, September 24, 2025, the Joint Gambling Authority of the German States (GGL) issued a sharp warning about the risks posed by illegal gambling providers targeting German players. Without safeguards such as age verification, deposit limits, or blocking systems, these sites leave players—especially younger ones—exposed to addiction risks.

Good to Know

• Illegal gambling platforms lack age checks, deposit caps, and player protection measures.
• GGL highlighted addiction risks, particularly for young people.
• The authority combines education, enforcement, and supervision of licensed operators.

“Anyone who plays illegally plays without protection. Illegal platforms do not offer effective player protection mechanisms. Anyone who plays there runs a significant risk of developing a gambling addiction,” said Ronald Benter, CEO of GGL.

The authority emphasised that gambling addiction develops gradually and that early intervention is crucial. Warning signs include steadily increasing stakes, loss of social connections, and neglect of responsibilities.

Three Pillars of Protection

GGL outlined its approach to preventing addiction and safeguarding players:

1. Providing clear information about risks and available protection mechanisms.
2. Combating illegal operators that expose players to unregulated products.
3. Monitoring licensed providers to ensure they comply with strict player protection rules.

The State Treaty on Gambling forms the legal foundation for gambling regulation in Germany. GGL is tasked with enforcing its provisions, guaranteeing that legal operators maintain protective systems while ensuring illegal providers are pursued.

Sebastian Buchholz, head of Licensing and Supervision of Legal Gambling at GGL, stressed the importance of oversight:

“Sports betting is a growing market; consistent oversight of legal providers, along with combating illegal betting services, is important to protect players and ensure legal certainty in the market.”

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