Combating Illegal Gambling
Combating illegal gambling is a core priority of the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC). Through a combination of regulatory oversight, enforcement actions, technological capabilities, and cooperation with national and international partners, the HGC works to detect, prevent, and address unlicensed gambling activities across both land-based and online channels. By doing so, the Authority protects consumers, supports fair competition, and strengthens the integrity, transparency, and sustainability of the regulated gambling market.
Objectives
The HGC’s efforts to combat illegal gambling are focused on:
- Protecting citizens from the risks associated with unregulated gambling activities
- Ensuring fair and lawful market competition
- Reducing the impact of the underground and informal economy
- Strengthening digital security and consumer protection
Key Actions
To address illegal gambling effectively, the HGC implements a range of preventive, supervisory, and enforcement measures, including:
- Identifying and blocking unauthorized gambling websites
- Conducting on-site inspections and digital investigations
- Imposing administrative sanctions, penalties, and fines where appropriate
- Cooperating with national and international regulatory, law enforcement, and judicial authorities
Notable Initiatives
- Blacklist management
- Enforcement actions
- Reporting and complaint mechanisms
- International cooperation
Tools and Resources
- Advanced electronic monitoring and surveillance systems
- Reporting and whistleblowing mechanisms
- Regulatory and inspection databases