German Regulator Thanks the Public for Reporting Gambling Violations

As part of Problem Gambling Awareness Month, Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), Germany’s Joint Gambling Authority, thanked the public for their continued use of its whistleblowing portal. Public reports have proven vital in the fight against illegal online gambling and in addressing irregularities in authorized gambling offers.

The Reports Led to Swift Investigations

In 2023, GGL has received about 1,500 reports from concerned citizens. Of this number, almost half involved suspicions concerning illegal online gambling, while the remaining half concerned the activities of licensed online gambling operators. Such data is invaluable to the regulator, which has limited resources, allowing it to focus on reported issues.

The majority of reports flagged illegal gambling activities, particularly those related to virtual slot machines, online sports betting, and gambling brokerages. Many reports also related to the advertising of unregulated gambling services. GGL acted upon this information and performed additional investigations, leading to some surprisingly significant results. 

During 2023, GGL examined over 1,860 sites and followed up on 438 operators and advertisers suspected of promoting illegal gambling. The regulator launched 133 prohibition procedures, and 63 black market operators or advertisers ceased their activities. Such action is vital to GGL’s ongoing mission to channel consumers towards safer regulated offerings.

Consumer Safety Remains a Priority for GGL

GGL stressed that detailed reporting is invaluable in properly investigating potential violations and resolving issues. Despite the success of the whistleblower program, many reports lacked the necessary detail and evidence, limiting GGL’s ability to pursue investigations. The authority has published guidelines to improve the quality of incoming reports, which are available on its website.

The German regulator encourages the public to report violations and include as much detail as possible. GGL board member Ronald Benter stressed how such reporting must be a public process, highlighting how the initiative significantly contributed to raising awareness of the risks of developing gambling addiction by holding operators and advertisers accountable for their actions.

GGL’s role is to ensure legal providers follow strict player protection guidelines while combating illegal offers. The reports we receive through the whistleblower system are crucial to these efforts.

Ronald Benter, GGL board member

GGL thanked all whistleblowers for their invaluable contribution to player protection and for helping combat illegal gambling online. The authority has recorded significant successes in its fight against black market operators. A recent policy change by Google forced operators wishing to advertise their products online to obtain a GGL license, significantly limiting the reach of illegal entities.