EGBA urges the EU to tackle the rise of online gambling fraud

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has called on the European Commission to take strong action against the rise of online gambling fraud. EGBA has presented evidence to the recent call by the Commission to develop an EU Action Plan on Online Fraud, which aims to reduce fraud in economic sectors through better cross-border coordination.

Online Fraud in the European Gambling Sector

EGBA has provided evidence of how fraudulent websites and applications mimic legitimate operators to deceive consumers. Key examples include illegal domains that resemble licensed operators, applications distributed on Google Play and Apple App Store, phishing campaigns, and advertisements on social media directing users to real-money betting apps outside the EU disguised as games.

This type of fraud exposes players to risks such as identity theft and financial losses, as they lack protections like self-exclusion offered by regulated operators. Despite ongoing monitoring and shutdown notifications, fraudulent domains quickly resurface, continuously exposing consumers without protection.

Impact of Illegal Operators

It is estimated that illegal operators capture 27% of the total European online gambling market, equivalent to approximately €18 billion in gross revenue by 2025. These operators outside the EU falsely claim to hold European licenses, thereby increasing risk for consumers. This phenomenon is linked to the expansion of unregulated illegal platforms that threaten both consumers and legitimate operators.

Need for Coordinated Action

The Commission's Action Plan on Online Fraud will be adopted in the second quarter of 2026. Dr. Ekaterina Hartmann, Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs at EGBA, emphasizes the need for coordinated action at the EU level to protect consumers:

"The evidence collected shows how fraudsters systematically exploit the trust that consumers place in the regulated gambling environment, thereby enabling the growth of the illegal market. Fragmented national responses are not sufficient."

About EGBA

EGBA is the Brussels-based trade association representing leading online gambling operators in the EU. It collaborates with national and EU authorities to promote a well-regulated market that protects consumers. It organizes the European Safer Gambling Week, promoting responsible and sustainable gambling.

EGBA members hold 321 online gambling licenses, complying with strict requirements to operate in 21 European countries. They also adhere to standards for responsible advertising, anti-money laundering, and player protection, representing approximately 30% of gross online gambling revenue in Europe.