The Greek government is seeking to crack down on influencers who advertise and promote dubious websites that funnel users into illegal gambling, under a new bill tabled by the Ministry of National Economy and Finance.
For the first time, the legislation introduces a standalone administrative penalty targeting the promotion of unlawful gambling activities. Fines ranging from 5,000 euros to 50,000 euros per violation will be imposed on influencers, streamers, digital advertising networks, affiliates, and advertisers found to be marketing illegal betting platforms.
The measure seeks to ensure that gambling advertising is limited to licensed operators, strengthening consumer protection and curbing illegal activity both online and offline.
A Growing Problem
With illegal betting described by authorities as having reached “epidemic” proportions, the government is rolling out a coordinated package of institutional, administrative, and operational interventions designed to tackle unlawful gaming in both land-based and online environments.
According to the ministry, the phenomenon disproportionately affects younger age groups. More than half of players — 52.2% — are aged 44 or younger, with the highest participation recorded among those between 18 and 34.
The scale of the issue is significant. An estimated 390,000 individuals gambled exclusively online, 215,000 participated in illegal land-based venues, and 194,000 engaged in both. Illegal sports betting, unlicensed roulette games, and slot machines rank among the most prevalent activities.
High Risks, Heavy Costs
Players acknowledge the risks of illegal gambling, citing financial losses, unpaid winnings and the lack of basic safeguards.
Research by the Hellenic Gaming Commission for 2024 estimates that 799,000 people — 9.5% of the population — took part in illegal gambling, generating 1.67 billion euros in turnover, with average spending of 2,089 euros per player. The state is believed to lose around 400 million euros in tax revenue annually, bolstering the case for tougher enforcement and greater accountability, including for online promoters.