Germany has witnessed a significant push by the Glücksspielgesetz (GGL) to regulate the iGaming landscape, particularly targeting entities like Lottoland that have been operating against the law. This enforcement campaign, initiated in July, represents a pivotal step in upholding Germany’s State Treaty on Gaming.
Overview of GGL’s Regulatory Actions:
In July, the GGL commenced administrative proceedings against Lottoland, citing its operations as illegal under German law. Moreover, in a proactive move, the authority has extended its actions by involving additional Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to block access to such unauthorized iGaming platforms. Ronald Benter, a Board Member, emphasized the potential consequences for ISPs failing to comply, indicating the imposition of fines. This underscores the GGL’s commitment to curbing unlawful iGaming activities by engaging various stakeholders.
Enforcement Measures Against Lottoland:
As the primary target of the GGL’s enforcement campaign, Lottoland faced substantial pressure from the authority. The GGL reported successful interventions, compelling multiple payment providers to cease collaboration with Lottoland, effectively removing its services from the market. Blocking access to websites hosting illegal gambling activities has emerged as another crucial tactic in the GGL’s arsenal. Benjamin Schwanke, another Board Member, acknowledged the legal complexities of such actions while emphasizing the GGL’s dedication to implementing the State Treaty on Gaming.
Strategies for Combating Illegal Gambling:
The GGL’s overarching goal revolves around eradicating the black market and ensuring compliance with the official whitelist of gaming providers. The authority prioritizes stringent enforcement measures against providers operating outside legal boundaries. While acknowledging the potential judicial scrutiny of their actions, the GGL remains resolute in its pursuit of maintaining law and order within the iGaming industry.
Call for Stricter Advertising Regulations:
In parallel with regulatory actions, German politician Burkhard Blienert advocated for a 9pm watershed on gambling advertisements. This call for stricter advertising regulations aims to mitigate the influence of gambling promotions, especially on vulnerable demographics, by imposing time restrictions.
The GGL’s proactive approach in regulating iGaming in Germany demonstrates a concerted effort to enforce legal standards and combat illegal gambling activities. Through administrative proceedings, ISP involvement, enforcement measures against specific entities like Lottoland, and calls for stricter advertising regulations, the authority aims to create a regulated, responsible iGaming environment. However, these actions are not without legal and regulatory challenges, underscoring the complexity of navigating the evolving landscape of iGaming regulation in Germany.