Illegal online gambling advertising: EDP calls for strict enforcement of the DSA
A parliamentary question has been submitted regarding the growing presence of illegal advertising relating to online gambling, particularly on Meta and other major platforms.
Members of the European Parliament Yvan Verougstraete, Deputy Secretary General of the European Democratic Party (EDP), and Sandro Gozi, Secretary General of the EDP, have submitted a written question to the European Commission regarding the growing presence of illegal online gambling advertisements, particularly on Meta and other major platforms.
Today, numerous unlicensed operators target EU citizens — including minors — with aggressive advertising, while ignoring player-protection rules, evading taxation, and creating unfair competition for legal operators. These practices may amount to a clear breach of the Digital Services Act (DSA), especially in relation to illegal content management and high-risk targeted advertising.
Statement by Yvan Verougstraete, Deputy Secretary General of the EDP
“It is unacceptable that major platforms like Meta continue to host and distribute advertising for illegal gambling operators that put minors and vulnerable people at risk. The DSA was designed precisely to put an end to this digital Wild West. The rules are there — now they must be enforced. We urge the Commission to act without delay to protect consumers and ensure fair competition in a sector where transparency and responsibility are essential.”
Statement by Sandro Gozi, Secretary General of the EDP
“The DSA is a cornerstone of the European model: it protects citizens, sets clear obligations for very large platforms, and ensures that the digital sphere is not a law-free zone. If Meta or any other platform fails to comply with these obligations, the EU must use the full range of sanctions foreseen by the DSA. European law applies to everyone, and we cannot tolerate illegal practices that fuel gambling addiction by targeting those most at risk. Europe must show its regulatory strength when defending the public interest.”
