Italian Agency Blocks 69 Unlicensed Gambling Websites
The Italian Agency for Customs and Monopolies (ADM) has taken further action against unauthorized online gambling operations. Their recent actions include issuing a new order to block access to 69 websites. This move is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal gambling activities within Italy.
According to the ADM’s official statement, this action is mandated by Article 102, paragraph 1, of Law Decree No. 104 of August 14, 2020, converted into Law No. 126 of October 13, 2020. This law empowers the ADM to ban operators that offer products or services that do not comply with current regulations.
In addition to blocking the 69 new sites, the ADM has also reinstated access to one previously blocked website. The updated list supplements the one published on July 17, 2025, on the agency’s official website.
Internet service providers are required to redirect users attempting to access the blocked websites to the IP address 217.175.53.72. The deadline for implementing these blocks is August 18, 2025.
With this latest action, the total number of blocked gambling websites in Italy now stands at 11,458.
ADM’s website hosts an updated list of blocked websites which is continuously updated and available to the public. Internet service providers can use this list to ensure they are implementing the blocks correctly.
Black Market Gambling Popularity
Italy’s black market gambling industry remains a major challenge, with recent studies estimating that Italians wager around €25 billion each year on unlicensed platforms. Of this, nearly €18.5 billion is linked to online gambling, making the digital space the dominant channel for illegal betting. These activities bypass regulation and consumer protection, leaving players exposed while diverting funds away from the licensed sector.
In terms of gross gaming revenue, Italy loses close to €1 billion annually to the black market. This figure highlights the scale of unregulated operators compared to the legal market and underlines the importance of stronger enforcement and safer, regulated alternatives. For players and policymakers alike, understanding the size of this shadow economy is key to promoting a transparent, secure, and sustainable gambling environment in Italy.
FAQs About Black Market Gaming in Italy
Black market gambling in Italy refers to betting on unlicensed operators, both online and offline. These platforms operate without local regulation, so they avoid taxes and consumer protection rules.
How much do Italians spend on illegal gambling?
Italians spend about €25 billion every year on illegal gambling. Moreover, nearly €18.5 billion of that amount flows into unlicensed online platforms.
Online gambling dominates because unlicensed sites are easy to access, often offer higher bonuses, and advertise aggressively. As a result, players choose them over regulated options.
The ADM is taking several measures to reduce the volume of black market gambling. One example includes blocking websites, and keeping an updated list of blacklisted operations.
Players risk losing money without recourse, facing unfair game odds, and exposing personal data. Furthermore, these sites rarely provide tools for responsible gambling.
The ADM manages licensing, enforces regulations, and monitors market conduct across sports betting, online casinos, poker, bingo, and skill games. You can find out more information on our article covering Italian licensed betting sites and regulations.
