Germany's Joint Gaming Authority of the Federal States (GGL) has expressed support for a new European initiative aimed at strengthening cross-border efforts to combat illegal online gambling.
The endorsement follows the participation of GGL representatives in a meeting of European regulatory authorities held on 12 November in Madrid, where regulators discussed shared enforcement challenges and opportunities for closer cooperation.
A joint statement issued by gambling authorities in Austria, France, Great Britain, Italy, Portugal and Spain focused on the rising prevalence of unauthorised operators and the spread of illegal advertising across digital platforms.
Regulators highlighted concerns about targeted marketing on social media, video platforms and affiliate networks, where unlicensed providers increasingly attempt to reach consumers within regulated European markets.
The statement also called on major digital platforms to improve their monitoring systems and prevent the dissemination of illegal gambling promotions.
Participating regulators reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced cross-border information exchange, coordinated enforcement and the sharing of best practices.
While the GGL cannot formally co-sign international declarations due to Germany's federal structure - under which it acts as a supervisory authority for the federal states rather than a state-level representative - it stated that it fully supports the positions outlined.
The authority emphasised that illegal online operators pose significant risks to consumers, particularly minors, and undermine the integrity of regulated markets.
The GGL said it will continue contributing to joint European strategies, prioritising the exchange of operational knowledge and strengthening regulatory alignment.
The announcement follows a series of consumer warnings issued by the authority in recent months, including advisories on social betting and unlicensed participation in Spain's El Gordo lottery.
The development also comes off the back of a recent tax hike in the UK, which industry analysts have suggested may end up pushing more bettors towards the black market.
German players can verify licensed operators using the GGL's public whitelist, updated continuously to reflect approved providers
