The Turkish Communications Directorate has launched a gambling harms awareness campaign across social media platforms.
With regulated gambling offerings severely restricted in Turkey, the illegal gambling sector continues to flourish. As a result, the campaign is not simply a responsible gambling initiative but also aims to discourage people from engaging with illegal gambling.
The campaign named ‘Don’t Fall for a Trick’ warns users about tactics used by unlicensed operators, including promises of easy and effortless financial gain.
Users are also urged to be wary of fake advertisements and misleading promotions featuring celebrities.
At the same time, Turkey’s Justice Minister Akın Gürlek has announced a tougher, more coordinated approach to tackling illegal gambling, saying the government will enter a “new dimension” in its fight against these activities.
Back in April, Gürlek already ordered a nationwide crackdown on illegal gambling, drug trafficking and organised crime.
Meanwhile, last month, Turkey’s Ministry of Trade expanded its existing advertising rules to explicitly prohibit promotions for illegal games of chance. Some restrictions have already been in place, but these are now tightened further.
The measure forms part of amendments to the Regulation on Commercial Advertising and Unfair Commercial Practices, which the Ministry said aim to strengthen consumer protection and tackle misleading and unlawful advertising practices across digital platforms.
Earlier, it was reported that Turkey is planning fines for around 3.1 million players identified in illegal betting sweeps, with penalties ranging from TL 100,000 ($2,200) to TL 400,000.
Furthermore, legislation introducing prison sentences for players involved in illegal gambling is still awaited, although it was previously discussed at length by local authorities.
In July, Turkey blocked Polymarket following regulators classification of the platform as illegal betting
