The Russian Ministry of Finance has issued a Draft Order requiring operators’ websites to display warnings about gambling-related risks.
This follows legislation signed in February 2026 mandating that all gambling communications include warnings about the risk of addiction, with the Order set to take effect on 1 September 2026.
The warning must inform users that participation in gambling does not guarantee winnings and may lead to the development of gambling addiction. Gambling operators must also provide information on investment options, including how funds can be put to work to preserve or increase their value.
The warning must occupy at least 7% of the visible homepage, while the investment information must be presented as an image linking to a relevant page designated by the authorities.
At the entrances to land-based bookmaker and totalisator locations, operators must also display a QR code linking to a webpage with information on investment options.
Failure to comply with these requirements will result in liability under Part 3 of Article 14.1.1 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Russian Federation, with fines ranging from RUB 300,000 ($3,700) to RUB 500,000.
Meanwhile, a bill that would prevent bookmakers from accepting bets from debtors including those with alimony obligations and legally incapacitated individuals may be postponed until at least autumn.
Bookmakers have warned they could lose a significant portion of their player base due to the high number of players in debt.
In early March, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov reportedly sent a letter to the office of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko requesting that the bill be delayed until autumn 2026.
Russia’s self-exclusion register is set to begin operating on 1 September 2026
