Hungary’s gambling regulator, the Supervisory Authority for Regulatory Affairs (SZTFH), has fined state lottery operator Szerencsejáték Zrt HUF 10m. The penalty follows procedural deviations identified during lottery draws held in April.
The fine, amounting to HUF 2.5m per game, relates to the Scandinavian Lottery, Six Lottery, Five Lottery and Joker draws. The SZTFH found that while the draws were prepared and conducted legally, the operator did not fully follow the approved procedures during the online closing process.
In April, Szerencsejáték Zrt voluntarily asked regulators to investigate after four of its lottery games produced jackpot winners in the same week.
The regulator confirmed that the deviation had no impact on the outcome of the draws, winning numbers or prize payments. It also found no evidence of fraud or external interference.
The investigation, launched on 22 April 2026, examined the management of draw equipment, the determination of winning numbers, data handling processes and prize payment procedures. The authority also reviewed camera footage, IT processes and conducted an on-site inspection at Szerencsejáték Zrt.headquarters.
Szerencsejáték Zrt carried out its own internal review, which found no irregularities affecting the integrity of the draws. The operator said the issue resulted from a differing interpretation between the company and the regulator regarding technical requirements for online closing procedures.
The company added that it would work with the SZTFH to clarify the relevant provisions and ensure future draws fully comply with the approved game plans.
Szerencsejáték Zrt recently agreed a HUF 9bn deal with the Hungarian Football Association, including HUF 6bn for marketing and HUF 3bn for betting rights
