Greece intensifies action to curb illegal online gambling
Greek authorities have stepped up their response to the country’s growing illegal online gambling market by blocking nearly 11,000 unlicensed websites and preparing a package of legislative, technological, and regulatory reforms aimed at weakening the digital black market. The moves come amid concerns over persistent unlawful activity that undermines licensed operators, exposes consumers to risk, and presents regulatory challenges that regulators now describe as urgent.
Blocking illegal sites and protecting players
The Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP), Greece’s independent gambling regulator, reported that it has identified and blocked approximately 11,000 websites operating without authorization. While the removal of these domains marks a significant enforcement action, regulators acknowledge that the pace of illegal activity remains difficult to control. Around 10,000 new gambling-related domains are registered globally each month, allowing unlicensed operators to reappear quickly after enforcement actions.
The Commission’s leadership has indicated that the scale of unlawful gambling shows how previous regulatory tools have struggled to keep up with online operators that exploit jurisdictional and technical gaps. Illegal platforms continue to operate outside consumer protection frameworks, offering no safeguards for players and no regulatory oversight of games, payments, or data handling.
Protecting vulnerable groups forms a central part of the regulator’s longer-term strategy. In outlining its objectives for the 2026–2030 period, the Commission placed responsible gaming measures high on the agenda, with a particular focus on youth exposure. A European study referenced by the regulator states that “one in three 16-year-olds has engaged in illegal online gambling.”
Legislative reforms and casino regulation under review
To reinforce its enforcement capabilities, the Commission is preparing legislative proposals designed to broaden its authority. One key measure would allow the regulator to “immediately suspend advertising linked to illegal gambling,” reducing the visibility and reach of unlicensed operators. Officials believe faster intervention against unlawful marketing could disrupt the channels that drive players toward illegal platforms.
The Commission also aims to deepen cooperation with licensed operators, viewing legitimate businesses as important partners in identifying and limiting illegal activity. Regulators have stressed that stronger collaboration can help preserve market integrity while ensuring compliance standards remain consistent.
Beyond online gambling, regulatory attention is also turning toward land-based casinos. Authorities are reviewing licensing structures for smaller venues, with plans to transition from open-ended permits to concession-based licences. This shift aims to clarify operational expectations and align casino oversight with broader economic and regional planning objectives.
Large-scale developments, including integrated tourist complexes at Ellinikon and in Maroussi, are expected to open by 2028. Regulators regard these projects as major investments that require clear and consistent regulatory frameworks. At the same time, recent challenges in the casino sector - such as the revocation of the Patras casino licence and financial restructuring at venues in Corfu and Thrace - have reinforced the case for tighter governance and oversight.
Technology investment and financial crime risks
Regulatory officials have acknowledged that illegal gambling operators often move quickly to adopt new technologies, complicating enforcement. In response, the Commission plans to invest in data analytics, real-time monitoring tools, automated licensing systems, and advanced information platforms to improve detection and supervision. Leadership has summarized this approach by stating that “technology makes supervision more effective, faster, and more reliable.”
These technological efforts coincide with broader concerns about financial crime linked to unregulated gambling. A recent money laundering investigation reportedly involved around 200 individuals, including government employees, drawing attention to systemic risks within the sector. The case has increased pressure for stronger financial controls and closer alignment with European anti-money laundering standards.
The Commission has indicated that combining legislative reform, technology upgrades, and institutional strengthening will be central to reducing the scale and impact of illegal online gambling. Regulators view sustained monitoring and adaptability as essential to keeping pace with evolving online gambling practices.
Source:
Greece Targets Illegal Online Gambling with New Measures, LCB.org, December 22, 2025