Greece cracks down on fraudulent websites
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21 Aug 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes Greece has launched a major offensive against the black market in gambling, which is accused of depriving the state of billions of euros and threatening public health. Through digital surveillance, crackdowns on clandestine networks and prevention campaigns, Athens intends to turn this fight into a European model.
A long-term response to a vicious cycle of illegality
On 20 August 2025, Greece launched what the government describes as a ‘legal strike’ against illegal gambling, both land-based and online, which is perceived as a substantial economic and social threat.
A survey conducted by the Gaming Control Commission (EEEP) and Kapa Research reveals the scale of the problem: in 2024, 800,000 Greeks (approximately 9.5% of the population) tried their luck at illegal gambling establishments or websites.
Of these, 390,000 played on online platforms, 215,000 in physical locations, and 194,000 used both methods. On average, each player spent €1,934 per year, with 28% betting exclusively on unauthorised sites.
The typical profile of an illegal gambler? A man aged between 25 and 44, but the alarming trend is the rise in gambling among young people and students, which is a source of concern for health and social authorities.
In July, the EEEP set up a task force including the police, the judiciary and the financial intelligence unit. The aim: to dismantle the criminal networks operating in the shadows.
A three-pronged strategy: closures, surveillance, prevention
1. Closing the doors on clandestine networks
The government is planning a bill in autumn 2025, introduced by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, to punish illegal operators. The bill provides for the immediate closure of suspicious premises such as cybercafés and private clubs. Complicit operators will have their licences revoked, and any obstruction of controls will be punishable by imprisonment.
2. Strengthening digital surveillance
To combat online platforms, Greece already uses DNS filters to block access to more than 11,000 unauthorised sites. It now aims to deploy a real-time surveillance system, supported by AI, through the systematic cross-referencing of user data, platforms and financial flows, in collaboration with the Bank of Greece.
3. Inform, protect, encourage legal gambling
Beyond enforcement, a public information campaign will raise awareness of the dangers of illegal gambling. Self-exclusion tools will be strengthened for vulnerable individuals, and the ministry is considering tax incentives to encourage a shift towards the regulated market.
European resonance and cross-border issues
This Greek initiative will not remain isolated. Several European authorities, including those in the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands, have already expressed their concerns about the rise of illegal betting in the EU.
Poland, as president of the Council of Europe in 2025, is advocating for a common legal framework and cross-border protections against illegal gambling. This Greek offensive could serve as a model for a coordinated European effort.
Economic and moral issues: striking a balance
At the heart of this struggle are two conflicting issues: filling tax revenues and tackling a growing social phenomenon, particularly among young people. In response, Greece is relying on a modern arsenal while maintaining a human approach: protecting the vulnerable, preventing abuses and promoting responsible engagement.