EGBA Calls for EU Action on Online Gambling Fraud

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) is urging the European Commission to take decisive action against the rising online fraud in the gambling sector across Europe. The EGBA has submitted evidence to the Commission's EU Action Plan on Fighting Online Fraud, which aims to enhance coordination and cross-border cooperation to reduce online fraud in various sectors, including gambling.

Online Fraud Threats in Gambling

Fraudulent websites and apps are increasingly impersonating licensed operators, posing serious risks to consumers. These fake platforms use domain names mimicking genuine operators and distribute illegal gambling apps through channels like Google Play and the Apple App Store. They engage in phishing campaigns and social media advertising that lures users to real-money apps disguised as games, operating outside the EU. This exposes players to dangers such as identity theft and financial loss, without the safeguards provided by regulated operators.

Impact on the European Online Gambling Market

In 2025, illegal operators captured an estimated 27% of Europe's total online gambling market gross gaming revenue, approximately worth €18 billion. Despite efforts to monitor and remove these frauds, new domains and applications frequently emerge, continuing to endanger consumers. These practices are linked to the rapid growth of unregulated platforms that threaten both consumers and legitimate operators.

EGBA's Submission to the European Commission

The EGBA's submission details the risks from offshore operators that falsely claim EU licensing and misrepresent their products as games. Dr. Ekaterina Hartmann, EGBA’s Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs, emphasized the need for coordinated EU-level action to combat these pervasive frauds. "Fragmented national approaches to these types of fraud are not enough," said Dr. Hartmann. "We need coordinated EU-level action to ensure consumers and legitimate operators aren’t left fighting an uphill battle against fraud."

Coordinated EU Action

The European Commission's Action Plan on Fighting Online Fraud is expected to be adopted in the second quarter of 2026. It aims to address these issues through enhanced EU-level coordination and cooperation, ensuring protection for consumers and legitimate operators.

About EGBA

The European Gaming and Betting Association represents leading online gambling operators established, licensed, and regulated within the EU. Based in Brussels, EGBA collaborates with national and EU authorities to maintain a well-regulated gambling market. Its members hold 321 online gambling licenses across 21 European countries, with a commitment to player protection, responsible advertising, and anti-money laundering.

Explore the EGBA's submission and evidence for more details on this issue.