German Gambling Authority Achievements and Future Challenges

The German Gambling Authority (GGL) released its annual report for 2024, marking significant strides in regulatory enforcement and international cooperation. Despite notable advancements, tackling illegal gambling remains a formidable challenge. The comprehensive report outlines the GGL's activities, underscoring the critical role of bans, fines, and geolocation measures in confronting the persistent issue of unlicensed gambling.

Strategic Progress in Regulation and Enforcement

A significant triumph for the GGL in 2024 was the rigorous enforcement of the State Treaty on Gambling 2021. The authority engaged actively with leading technology firms, including Google and Facebook, to eliminate illegal gambling advertisements and obstruct unauthorized websites. This collaborative effort has been vital in curbing access to unlicensed operators in Germany. Throughout the year, the GGL has been assertive in imposing penalties and banning illegal gambling entities. Enforcement measures included deploying geolocation technology to block players’ access to unauthorized sites, showcasing the regulator's dedication to abiding by Germany's gambling laws. Beyond enforcement, player protection remained a core focus. The GGL aimed to educate players on the dangers of gambling and ensure advertising adhered strictly to guidelines, prohibiting misleading content and safeguarding vulnerable individuals. However, illegal gambling continues to pose a challenge, severely undermining the regulator's initiatives to channel players towards the legal market. Looking forward, the GGL divulges plans to bolster enforcement activities in 2025. Key strategies involve enhanced data collection for insightful analyses of player behaviors and advertising impacts. Prioritizing international cooperation, the regulator seeks to forge alliances with foreign authorities to enhance information sharing and strengthen global anti-illegal gambling efforts.

Milestones and Future Directions for 2024 and Beyond

In its relentless battle against illegal gambling, the year 2024 saw several significant accomplishments spearheaded by the GGL. A multifaceted approach combining payment blocking, geo-blocking, and legal actions was instrumental in disrupting unauthorized operators. Key successes included effective collaboration with payment service providers to complicate transactions for illegal entities. A decisive ruling by the Halle Administrative Court in October 2024 affirmed the success of GGL’s tactics against a Swiss payment provider, reinforcing the efficacy of such strategies. Leveraging the Digital Services Act (DSA), the GGL expanded geo-blocking to inhibit access to illegal sites significantly. At the GGL’s behest, Google adjusted its gambling ad policies in Germany. As of September 25, 2024, only licensed operators are permitted to advertise on Google Ads, reducing illegal gambling promotion, especially from comparison sites linked to unlicensed offers. However, the GGL acknowledges that more stringent measures are necessary to curtail advertising opportunities for illegal operators. Reflecting on 2024, the GGL highlighted both its progress and the enduring challenges. "2024 presented us with a variety of challenges, but we were able to show that we have the structures and expertise to actively shape them," remarked Ronald Benter, a board member. The authority remains steadfast in its mission to make illegal gambling unprofitable through ongoing enforcement and judicious supervision that ensures fair competition among licensed operators. The long-term vision is to cultivate a fully regulated gambling market in Germany that prioritizes player safety and minimizes harm. By bolstering enforcement, facilitating international cooperation, and refining its regulatory framework, the GGL aspires to create a sustainable and transparent gambling environment. Source: 'Regulation of the online gambling market: 2024 review of successes and challenges', gluecksspiel-behoerde.de, December 23, 2024. By GamesAndCasino