GGL issues warning against illegal social betting
According to the regulator, social betting is particularly susceptible to manipulation because outcomes are often subjective, unclear or open to influence.
Key points:
– GGL warns that social betting, including wagers on politics or social events, is illegal in Germany
– Such bets are banned due to high manipulation risks and cannot be licensed under current law
– Participation, promotion or organisation of these offers can result in penalties
The Joint Gambling Authority of the German States (GGL) has issued a warning against participation in illegal social betting activities, including entertainment betting offerings that charge fees.
The regulator emphasised that such betting formats, including those available on platforms like Polymarket, are prohibited under current German law.
The warning follows an increase in reports regarding social betting activities in regional and national media over recent weeks and months.
Notable examples include bets placed on outcomes related to the ongoing war in Ukraine, prompting the GGL to issue targeted warnings and provide public education about the legal implications and risks associated with illegal betting.
According to the GGL, the social betting format presents particular vulnerability to manipulation due to its basis on unclear, subjective or potentially influenceable events.
Good to know: Social betting encompasses wagers on events in public or social life, including political elections, court rulings, natural disasters, social events and other non-sporting developments
Under Section 3 Paragraph 1 and Section 4 Paragraph 5 of the 2021 State Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021), such betting activities are ineligible for approval due to their high manipulation risk.
German legislation permits only betting on defined sporting events that feature verifiable results and clear rules. All other forms of betting remain prohibited and cannot receive authorisation.
The GGL emphasised that organising or facilitating illegal betting activities, participating in them and advertising such offerings constitute punishable offences under German law.
The regulator pointed out that consumers who want to ensure they are gambling legally can consult the official whitelist of licensed operators on its website, where a detailed FAQ section addresses frequently asked questions about online gambling.
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