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GGL Warns: Illegal Online Gambling Puts Young People in Particular at High Risk of Addiction
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Illegal gambling providers target their online offerings specifically at German players. However, without age controls, stake and deposit limits or blocking systems, the risk of gambling addiction can increase – especially among young people. On the occasion of the annual Gambling Addiction Action Day on September 24, 2025, the Joint Gambling Authority of the German States (GGL) issued a strong warning against such illegal offerings.
“Anyone who plays illegally plays without protection. Illegal platforms do not offer effective player protection mechanisms. Anyone who plays there runs a significant risk of developing a gambling addiction,” Ronald Benter, CEO of GGL, said.
Preventing gambling addiction is an important part of the GGL’s work. The authority focuses on three key aspects: Information about risks and protective mechanisms,
Combating illegal offers that pose particular risks,
Control of legal providers to ensure that all player protection regulations are adhered to.
The task of the GGL is to consistently enforce the legal requirements of the State Treaty on Gambling with regard to player protection for permitted providers.
“Sports betting is a growing market; consistent oversight of legal providers, along with combating illegal betting services, is important to protect players and ensure legal certainty in the market,” said Sebastian Buchholz, head of the “Licensing and Supervision of Legal Gambling” department at GGL. Gambling addiction develops gradually. Anyone who notices warning signs such as increasing stakes or social withdrawal should seek help early.
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