Online Gambling Penalties Intensify in 2025: Up to 2 Years Imprisonment or Tk1 crore Fine Enforced for Offenders
The German authorities have taken a firm stance against online casinos with the announcement of the Cybersecurity Ordinance 2025. This new legislation, enforced by the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), prohibits the creation, operation, promotion, participation, support, or advertisement of any online gambling activities. Any person, organization, company, or institution that violates these rules will face severe penalties, including imprisonment for up to two years, a fine of up to Tk1 crore, or both. The High Court's directives, issued on 19 September, aim to prevent cybersecurity threats and ensure public safety. The ordinance applies to all online platforms, apps, or devices related to online casinos, including electronic, print, and social media platforms such as Facebook, Google, YouTube, WhatsApp, Twitter, TikTok, and others. Promoting or encouraging gambling on these platforms is considered a punishable offence. All individuals and organizations have been advised to abstain from participating in or supporting gambling-related advertisements. Electronic, print, and social media platforms have been asked to remove, block, or shut down any websites, apps, links, and advertisements related to online casinos promptly. The Cybersecurity Ordinance 2025 sets penalties for online gambling, fraud, and deception. The law does not specify any exceptions or loopholes for online casinos. The High Court's directives are additional measures to enforce the Cybersecurity Ordinance 2025, and the information about these directives was not specified in the earlier provided PID handout. The authorities have made it clear that the offence includes promoting or encouraging gambling on social media platforms. Violators will face the same penalties as those who create, operate, or promote online casinos, apps, or devices. The penalties for violating the Cybersecurity Ordinance 2025 remain severe, serving as a deterrent for those considering engaging in online casino activities. This crackdown on online casinos is part of the German authorities' efforts to maintain law and order in the digital space and protect the public from the potential dangers associated with online gambling. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring a safe and secure online environment for all citizens.
