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German gambling authority GGL called on licensed operators to leverage their market influence and supply chain connections to help combat illegal online gambling.
Mar 2, 2026 · 4 min read
Germany's gambling regulator GGL has intensified calls for licensed operators to take greater responsibility in combating illegal online gambling, using its presence at ICE Barcelona to outline enforcement strategies and industry expectations.
The authority attended the major industry trade fair from January 19-21, 2026, positioning the event as a platform for international regulatory coordination and industry engagement on black market challenges.
At the "Gaming in Germany Breakfast" session, GGL department head Nadja Wierzejewski detailed the regulator's comprehensive approach to tackling illegal online gambling markets. The strategy encompasses prohibition orders, payment and IP blocking measures, advertising restrictions for unlicensed operators, and systematic action against all actors throughout the illegal gambling value chain.
The multi-pronged approach represents GGL's commitment to applying sustained pressure across the entire ecosystem supporting unauthorized gambling operations in Germany, similar to Dutch KSA's aggressive enforcement stance which has made illegal operator infrastructure disruption a top priority for 2026.
GGL's Multi-Pronged Approach
Germany's gambling regulator employs prohibition orders, payment and IP blocking measures, advertising restrictions for unlicensed operators, and systematic action against all actors throughout the illegal gambling value chain to combat black market operations.
GGL issued a direct challenge to licensed operators, emphasizing their untapped potential in market enforcement efforts. The regulator highlighted that legitimate operators possess extensive market knowledge, supply chain influence, and direct relationships with service providers.
"Licensed operators have comprehensive market knowledge, influence along the value chain, and direct contacts with service providers. Consistent distancing from illegal offerings and greater diligence in selecting business partners can significantly strengthen the effect of state measures."
— Nadja Wierzejewski, GGL Department Head
The authority specifically called for enhanced due diligence in partner selection and stronger distancing from illegal offerings as mechanisms to amplify regulatory enforcement effectiveness. This approach mirrors the Dutch KSA's recent enforcement actions which have resulted in substantial penalties for operators failing to maintain adequate compliance standards.
GGL emphasized that sustainable market protection requires coordinated action between regulators, licensed operators, and service providers. The authority positioned industry participants as essential partners whose active engagement determines long-term market stability and viability.
This collaborative framework reflects Germany's evolving approach to gambling regulation, where private sector cooperation becomes integral to enforcement success.
Industry Best Practice
Licensed operators can significantly strengthen regulatory enforcement by implementing enhanced due diligence in partner selection and maintaining consistent distancing from illegal gambling offerings. This collaborative approach amplifies the effectiveness of state measures and contributes to long-term market stability.
GGL employs prohibition orders, payment and IP blocking measures, advertising restrictions for unlicensed operators, and systematic action against all actors throughout the illegal gambling value chain. This comprehensive approach targets the entire ecosystem supporting unauthorized gambling operations.
Licensed operators can strengthen enforcement by implementing enhanced due diligence in partner selection and maintaining consistent distancing from illegal offerings. Their extensive market knowledge, supply chain influence, and direct relationships with service providers make them valuable partners in regulatory efforts.
GGL emphasizes that sustainable market protection requires coordinated action between regulators, licensed operators, and service providers. Private sector cooperation has become integral to enforcement success, with industry participants positioned as essential partners whose active engagement determines long-term market stability.
According to GGL.
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This content reflects a general overview of regulatory frameworks based on publicly available information. It does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion. iGamingWriter.blog disclaims any liability arising from reliance on this material.
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