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Greece Targets Influencers Promoting Illegal Gambling: A Comprehensive Guide

By jili tutorial · October 8, 2026

Greece Targets Influencers Promoting Illegal Gambling: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

In a bold move to combat illegal gambling, Greece has filed criminal complaints against 18 influencers for promoting unlicensed gambling operations. This action, announced by Minister of National Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis on October 6, 2026, underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing its new gambling laws and protecting vulnerable populations.

The Scale of Illegal Gambling in Greece

Alarming Statistics

In 2025, approximately 900,000 people participated in illegal gambling in Greece, wagering around €1.8 billion on the black market. These staggering figures highlight a significant social issue, particularly affecting younger individuals who are often targeted through aggressive online promotions.

Impact on Society and Economy

The illegal gambling market not only poses a threat to public health and safety but also deprives the state of substantial revenue. It undermines the legal gambling industry, which, in contrast, saw a Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) of €1.56 billion in the first half of 2026, marking an 8% increase from the previous year.

The Role of Influencers in Promoting Illegal Gambling

Criminal Complaints Filed

The Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) has filed criminal complaints with the Athens First Instance Prosecutor’s Office against 18 influencers. These individuals allegedly used their Instagram accounts to promote 11 unlicensed gambling websites and eight providers, collectively amassing 3.6 million followers. Notably, the largest single account involved boasts 623,000 followers.

Government’s Stance

Minister Pierrakakis emphasized that popularity does not equate to immunity. “The internet is not a jungle. Popularity offers no immunity, and influence carries responsibility,” he stated. The government is determined to ensure that those who misuse their platforms to promote illegal activities face the full consequences of the law.

Greece’s Enhanced Gambling Enforcement Measures

Law 5313/2026: A Comprehensive Overhaul

Published on June 25, 2026, Law 5313/2026 introduced significant changes to Greece’s gambling enforcement framework. Key provisions include:

Leveraging Technology

The EEEP is utilizing advanced digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI) to map illegal gambling networks swiftly. These technologies aid in identifying and blocking illegal websites and promotional channels, in collaboration with the Hellenic Telecommunications and Post Commission (EETT) and internet service providers.

Prevention and Protection Measures

Focus on Youth Protection

Beyond enforcement, the government is emphasizing the need for preventive measures and public awareness campaigns. Minister Pierrakakis stressed the importance of shielding minors and young people from early exposure to gambling in their digital lives. “We cannot accept as normal a new generation that encounters gambling earlier and earlier in its everyday digital life,” he remarked.

Collaborative Efforts

The EEEP operates as an independent authority, ensuring that the government does not interfere with its auditing processes. The regulator is committed to collaborating with relevant bodies to address gambling addiction and safeguard vulnerable populations.

Conclusion

Greece’s crackdown on influencers promoting illegal gambling marks a significant step in the nation’s efforts to regulate the gambling industry and protect its citizens. By leveraging stringent laws, advanced technology, and preventive measures, the government aims to curb the illegal market, protect young people, and ensure a fair and regulated gambling environment.