Spain cracks down on illegal gambling and boosts player protection
Spain has intensified its efforts against illegal gambling through the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ). In recent months, the DGOJ has blocked and disabled fourteen illegal gambling operators, signaling a firm stance against unauthorized betting platforms. This initiative is part of a coordinated strategy involving law enforcement, regional regulators, and specialized police units known as the ‘Policía del juego’. Their mission encompasses monitoring, investigating, and shutting down illegal betting shops and online sites to ensure the legality and safety of gambling in Spain.
The DGOJ’s approach has garnered attention from other European countries, with Italy, France, and Germany considering similar models of collaboration between regulators, financial institutions, and law enforcement. The effectiveness of Spain’s system is highlighted by its capacity to impose substantial fines, exceeding €65 million in November 2024 alone, primarily targeting foreign online operators violating licensing requirements.
Beyond punitive measures, Spain’s regulatory framework is evolving to address emerging challenges such as advanced gaming technologies and new betting formats. The DGOJ is investing in agent training, technology, and international cooperation to keep pace with cybercrime, match-fixing, and blockchain-based gambling.
A cornerstone of Spain’s strategy is player protection. Recent regulations mandate operators to implement robust safeguards for vulnerable groups, particularly young adults and individuals exhibiting risky gambling behavior. Operators are now required to alert players to risky patterns, limit credit card usage, and exclude at-risk individuals from promotions and VIP programs. Additionally, monthly activity reports and mandatory assistance hotlines have been instituted, placing greater responsibility on operators to ensure safe play.
