A hidden economy of more than €80 billion. That is the estimate of what circulates annually in illegal online gambling within Europe. For the first time, regulators from Belgium, France, Germany, Spain and Britain, among others, are jointly sounding the alarm.
According to figures, this black market overshadows the legal sector by more than twice. The impact? Billions in lost tax revenue, but mostly invisible damage to consumers who think they are playing safely.
Belgium also worries
The Gaming Commission in Belgium joins the international concern. The regulator previously warned about the increasing number of illegal websites targeting Belgian players, often with Dutch-language advertising campaigns and without any user protection.
Although Belgium has introduced strict rules for gambling advertising, foreign illegal operators effortlessly work past those rules. In cooperation with European colleagues, the Belgian watchdog is now trying to better tackle these cross-border practices.
Social media as elusive catalyst
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the role of platforms like Meta. It is estimated that by 2024, around 10% of their advertising revenue will come from banned products – including gambling. Belgian authorities are therefore joining in calling for tighter controls on gambling advertisements, especially if they target young people via influencers.
Illegal operators use well-known figures without adhering to any rules. While regulated Belgian operators must adhere to strict frameworks, others hitch a ride on reach and obscurity. This not only distorts the market but also trust.
Lack of knowledge plays into the hands of illegal operators
Many players do not know how to check whether a provider is licensed. According to European regulators, including the Belgian one, this is a major problem. Legal platforms are sometimes unfairly distrusted, while illegal sites have free rein.
That is why the focus is now not only on blockades or fines, but also on awareness. Protecting players starts with knowing what is legal – and what is not.