Germany Steps Up Enforcement in Online Gambling Regulation

GGL increases scrutiny of licensed operators

In 2024, the GGL handled more than 230 license-related cases, including 28 new applications and 202 amendments. Most applications concerned high-risk products like virtual slots, sports betting, online poker, and horse race betting. The regulator reviewed over 1,800 individual virtual slot games.

GGL paid close attention to sports betting during major events like UEFA Euro 2024 and the Summer Olympics. It examined operator conduct and advertising to ensure consumer protection. Only minor issues appeared, mostly involving promotional language and unclear bonus terms.

Public warnings used for the first time

In October 2024, GGL issued public warnings to licensed operators for the first time. This new tool aims to boost transparency and deter future violations. The authority said it would use these warnings more often to enforce the Interstate Gambling Treaty (GlüStV 2021).

A court in Mainz supported the GGL’s use of behavioral data — or “markers of harm” — to adjust deposit limits. The ruling confirmed the regulator’s right to implement harm-prevention measures under defined conditions.

Enforcement action against illegal operators

The GGL expanded efforts to shut down unlicensed gambling sites. It reviewed almost 1,800 websites and issued 231 prohibition orders. As a result, 188 gambling sites and 284 advertising platforms became inaccessible to users in Germany.

To support these actions, the GGL blocked payments and used geo-blocking. It worked with 43 payment service providers to cut off transactions to 165 illegal platforms. Geo-blocking, based on the Digital Services Act, helped restrict access to 657 websites.

Offshore betting on amateur matches sparks concern

A public debate emerged around offshore betting on German amateur football. German law bans such bets, but they may be legal elsewhere. GGL clarified its stance and called on licensed firms to apply geofencing and prevent access through VPNs.

The use of real-time scouts in amateur games also raised integrity issues. The GGL warned of manipulation risks and urged greater transparency and technical safeguards.

Legal disputes and international implications

GGL participated in 189 court cases related to licensing decisions, deposit limits, and license withdrawals. Germany’s top civil court referred several cases to the European Court of Justice (ECJ). These cases deal with whether players can reclaim losses from illegal sites. The ECJ’s decision could affect how EU states handle cross-border gambling.

GGL also urged lawmakers to revise Section 284 of the German Criminal Code. The change would allow criminal charges against foreign operators targeting German players. It could also lead to a specialized public prosecutor’s office focused on gambling violations.

New risks: loot boxes and crypto gambling

In 2024, GGL launched a review of loot boxes found in video games. It worked with experts and state authorities to assess whether these features qualify as gambling under German law.

Crypto casinos also drew attention. These operators use decentralized payments to avoid regulation. The GGL continues to monitor them and explore legal options to counter these evasive models.