At the European Casino and Gaming Conference (ECGC) 2025, industry leaders raised serious concerns over the escalating threat posed by illegal gambling operations across Europe. Experts described the current situation as an “unprecedented threat” to the regulated gaming ecosystem, with black-market platforms becoming increasingly sophisticated and difficult to track.
Key Threats Identified
Illegal operators are leveraging advanced technologies, including AI-powered player targeting, cryptocurrency-based transactions, and VPNs to bypass geographical restrictions. These unlicensed platforms offer no responsible gambling tools or player protections, exposing users to high risks. The financial damage is also severe, with legal markets estimated to lose between €3-5 billion annually. Alarmingly, many of these illegal platforms have ties to organized crime.
Strategic Solutions Proposed
Experts outlined several key strategies to combat the rise of illegal gambling:
- Cross-border Collaboration: Enhanced regulatory cooperation and information sharing
- Tech-Driven Monitoring: AI tools to detect and disrupt illegal gambling networks
- Financial Oversight: Stronger monitoring of gambling-related transactions
- Public Awareness: Educational campaigns to warn consumers about the risks of using unlicensed sites
Industry Involvement Essential
Licensed operators were called upon to bolster their role by improving competitive offerings, supporting regulatory enforcement through data sharing, and developing more effective detection systems.
The panel concluded with a strong call for urgent, coordinated action, warning that 2025 may be a turning point in the fight against illegal gambling. Failure to act swiftly could lead to deeper losses in consumer trust, tax revenues, and market integrity.
