Ukraine Exposes Alleged Russian Links in iGaming Sector
The online gambling operator Pin-Up has come under intense scrutiny for its alleged connections to Russia. According to Ukrainian officials, the operator may have been collecting personal and location data of its users for use during the war.
Allegations Against Pin-Up
Ukraine’s State Bureau of Investigation (DBR) and the Prosecutor General’s Office announced on December 5 that Pin-Up, a prominent online casino, is suspected of having links to Russia. Authorities allege that individuals tied to the company, owned by Russian citizens, may have used the platform to gather personal and location data from its users, potentially aiding Russia’s war efforts.
Further, officials claim that associates of Pin-Up operated in the Luhansk region, contributing directly to Russia’s aggression through financial and logistical support. The DBR suggested that funds generated through the platform may have been funneled to support Russian organizations, including those aiding war veterans.
The allegations gained traction following the seizure of Pin-Up’s assets by the Pecherskyi Court in Kyiv, with millions redirected to Ukraine’s Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA). These funds were subsequently invested in military bonds to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
The War Prompted Urgent Emergency Regulations
Ukraine has been actively implementing wartime measures to eliminate Russian influence in its gambling sector. Since legalizing gambling in 2020 after a decade-long prohibition, the industry has become a significant revenue stream. However, the ongoing conflict with Russia has necessitated emergency regulations to safeguard national security.
New restrictions include a complete ban on iGaming participation by military personnel and tighter controls on gambling advertisements. These measures aim to curb financial leakage to black-market gambling and prevent exploitation by entities with possible ties to Russia.
