The MGA Warns About Unauthorized URLs Identified in September 2026
The Malta Gaming Authority alerts about various websites that fraudulently claim to hold MGA licenses. The regulator warns that operating or playing on these sites poses risks to consumers.
Key Takeaways
- The MGA identified several unauthorized URLs in September 2026 that illegally use its name.
- None of the listed pages have any link or license from the Malta Gaming Authority.
- Engaging with unlicensed operators exposes consumers to risks and a lack of legal protection.
- The regulator periodically updates its official list of unauthorized URLs.
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has issued a notice identifying several unauthorized URLs detected in September 2026. These websites have no affiliation with the authority and do not possess MGA licenses, despite claiming otherwise. The regulator reminds consumers that using these services represents a risk and urges them to verify the license status before engaging in any transactions.
Alerts Issued by the Malta Gaming Authority Regarding Unauthorized URLs
The MGA stated that it has identified the following web addresses in September 2026 as linked to unauthorized operators:
- https://katosports.com/
- https://caswino-pokies.com/
- https://caswino.cz/
- https://ritzo-hungary.com/
- https://www.elysiumstudios.se/what-s-new
- https://www.tigercasino-au.com/
- https://horuscasino-aud.com/en-au/
- https://www.casinonight.nz/
- https://highflybet-aud.com/en-au/
- https://mzansibetcasino.live/es/
- https://www.casinonight-aud.com/
- https://www.chipscasino.pl/
These websites lack authorization from the Malta Gaming Authority. Any reference to the Malta Gaming Authority or licenses supposedly issued by it, as stated on the mentioned pages, is false and misleading.
Importance of Verifying the MGA License
The MGA insists that players and operators must ensure that any entity they interact with has a valid license granted by the authority. The Maltese regulatory framework requires license holders to adhere to stringent legal requirements designed to protect consumers and ensure the integrity of gaming operations.
Interacting with unauthorized entities entails concrete risks: these companies are not subject to MGA regulations and thus do not offer the protections set forth in official regulation. This exposes users to potential fraud, unmediated disputes, and the inability to file claims in a supervised manner.
"Any reference to the MGA and/or gaming licenses allegedly issued by the Malta Gaming Authority, as claimed by the mentioned websites, is false and misleading." — Malta Gaming Authority
Official Listings and Sources of URLs and MGA Licensees
The Malta Gaming Authority regularly maintains and updates a list of unauthorized URLs identified by the regulator. This inventory increases as the authority detects new pages misusing its name or logos to attract users without proper authorization.
On the other hand, there is an official register of MGA license holders. Frequently consulting this list helps intermediaries and players avoid falling victim to scams and verify the legitimacy of any online gaming service provider they intend to interact with. This review can be referred to as an essential reference in regulatory compliance and good corporate governance.
Recommendations for Operators and Consumers in Light of Fraudulent URLs
The MGA advises operators, platform providers, and players to:
- Always verify the license status of any entity before conducting operations.
- Avoid using services from websites not included in the official MGA register.
- Regularly stay informed about new alerts and updates issued by the regulator.
Operating or playing on unauthorized websites not only poses economic risks but also lacks legal safeguards or access to mediation mechanisms in case of disputes.
Impact on International Regulation and Best Practices in the Sector
Such alerts reiterate the importance of complying with regulatory frameworks and ensuring transparency in the relationship between operators, players, and authorities. Collaboration between jurisdictions and proactive oversight, driven by organizations like the Malta Gaming Authority, are central to consumer protection and the health of the international iGaming sector.
Platform companies, especially those interested in the online casino segment, must heed official communications and avoid any association with unlicensed operators that could compromise their reputation or expose them to sanctions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the MGA do regarding unauthorized URLs using its name?
The Malta Gaming Authority publishes notices identifying URLs that falsely claim to have MGA licenses. In September 2026, it detected twelve new unauthorized pages that pose a risk to consumers.
Why is it important to verify an MGA license of an operator?
Verifying the license ensures that the entity meets strict regulatory requirements and provides user protection. Unlicensed operators lack these controls and can lead to financial losses and disputes without legal backing.
Where can the official list of MGA licensed operators be consulted?
The MGA maintains a publicly updated register of all operators with valid licenses. Consulting this register helps avoid scams and ensures legal and protected operations.
What risks are associated with using services from an operator not authorized by the MGA?
Services from unlicensed entities are not regulated or supervised by the Malta Gaming Authority. This means consumers lack complaint mechanisms and are at risk of fraud or abusive practices.
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About the author
Miguel Sandoval
Regulatory Affairs Correspondent
Miguel Sandoval tracks gambling legislation, licensing, and regulator enforcement — from Spain's DGOJ and the Latin American authorities to the UKGC, the MGA, and the state-by-state map in North America. The reports answer three questions precisely — what changed, where, and who it affects — with jurisdictions, dates, and penalties cited exactly as published. Operators and compliance officers read Miguel Sandoval to know which rulebook moved before their next meeting.
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