Spain cracks down on illegal gambling and boosts player protection

Spain is stepping up its fight against illegal gambling, with the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ) intensifying efforts to block unlicensed operators and safeguard players across the country.

In recent months, the DGOJ has blocked and disabled fourteen illegal gambling operators, sending a clear message that unauthorised betting platforms will not be tolerated in one of Europe’s most tightly regulated markets.

This crackdown is part of a coordinated strategy involving law enforcement, regional regulators, and the ‘Policía del juego’.

These specialised police units work alongside the DGOJ to monitor, investigate, and shut down illegal betting shops and online sites, ensuring that gambling in Spain remains legal and safe.

Their mission is not only to enforce the law but to protect consumers from fraud, money laundering and the risks associated with unregulated gambling.

The DGOJ’s approach is also drawing attention from other European countries, with Italy, France and Germany looking to replicate Spain’s model of close collaboration between regulators, financial institutions and law enforcement.

The Spanish system’s effectiveness is underscored by its ability to impose heavy fines, over €65m in November 2024 alone, mostly targeting foreign online operators that flouted licensing requirements.

But the crackdown isn’t just about punishment. Spain’s regulatory framework is evolving to address new challenges, such as the rise of 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.

Player protection is another cornerstone of Spain’s strategy. Recent regulations require operators to implement robust safeguards for vulnerable groups, especially young adults and those showing risky gambling behavior.

Operators must now alert players to risky patterns, limit credit card use, and exclude at-risk individuals from promotions and VIP programs.

Monthly activity reports and mandatory assistance hotlines are also part of the new rules, shifting more responsibility onto operators to ensure safe play.