Strict gambling rules do not stop Belgian players from gambling illegally. In Belgium, gambling rules are strict. Advertising for gambling is heavily restricted and there are high fines for illegal gambling practices.
Yet the number of Belgian players on illegal gambling sites keeps rising. More and more people ignore the rules and take their chances on banned platforms.
Many players say they do so because the legal market offers little choice. They find the bonuses and games at illegal providers more attractive.
There are also fewer restrictions on illegal sites, such as deposit limits. Players who want to win quickly are therefore attracted to those platforms. Still, it pays to play in a safe environment, like at Star Casino, for example.
Young people get addicted faster due to illegal gambling sites without controls
Young people are particularly at risk. On illegal sites, there are almost no age controls or limits.
This causes young people to get into trouble faster. There is no one to stop them in time.
The Belgian Gaming Commission is worried about this. They say illegal sites are dangerous because they offer no protection to vulnerable players.
Help for gambling problems is also completely lacking there. Those who become addicted are on their own.
Belgian gambling sector and regulators warn of major dangers
The Belgian gambling sector, united in BAGO, is sounding the alarm. They warn that illegal sites not only mislead players, but also destroy the entire legal sector.
According to BAGO, these sites create unfair competition. Legal providers have to adhere to strict rules, while illegal sites can do anything.
The Gambling Commission says they are stepping up the fight against illegal gambling. They want to block access to those sites and warn players of the risks.
Still, it remains mopping up as long as players continue to circumvent the rules.