Portugal Intensifies Fight Against Illegal Gambling
In recent years, Portugal has ramped up its efforts to combat illegal gambling, an activity that poses a threat to the integrity of the gaming sector and presents serious risks to consumers. In 2025, the country took another decisive step in this direction, focusing on more effective enforcement, legislative updates, and public awareness campaigns.
A Persistent Problem
Despite the legalization and regulation of online gambling in 2015, the parallel market remains a concern for Portuguese authorities. It is estimated that hundreds of millions of euros circulate annually through unlicensed platforms, operating outside the control of the Gaming Regulation and Inspection Service (SRIJ), the sector’s regulatory body in Portugal.
These illegal sites often lure users with enticing offers and a lack of restrictions, exposing them to risks such as fraud, manipulated results, and a lack of protection against addictive behaviors. Furthermore, the failure to pay taxes and social security contributions exacerbates the negative impact on the national economy.
Illegal Gambling by the Numbers
According to Ricardo Domingues, president of the Portuguese Online Betting and Gaming Association (APAJO), there are “worrying signs of increased use of illegal platforms, with influencers advertising unlicensed operators on social media and these companies strengthening their communication through other channels.”
In response, APAJO filed criminal complaints in 2024 against 22 public figures, digital influencers, and content creators, as well as 13 operators illegally active in the Portuguese market. The Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the opening of investigations, although it indicated that it does not provide specific data that would isolate cases related to illegal online gambling platforms.
The Financial Impact
Legal online gambling in Portugal continues to be a sector of significant economic relevance. In 2024, the 17 licensed companies in the country generated over one billion euros in gross revenue, contributing €334 million in Online Gaming Special Tax (IEJO) to state coffers.
However, the impact of illegal gambling remains significant. An APAJO estimate, based on SRIJ data, indicates that the state lost approximately €248 million in tax revenue last year due to the activity of unlicensed operators.
The Role of SRIJ
The Gaming Regulation and Inspection Service (SRIJ) adopts a proactive approach in combating illegal activity. Its main actions include notifying unlicensed operators, demanding the immediate cessation of their operations targeting the Portuguese market, and requesting internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to illegal sites.
SRIJ also files reports with the Public Prosecutor’s Office whenever there are sufficient allegations to initiate criminal proceedings. Under current legislation, the illicit operation of online games and bets in Portugal constitutes a crime, punishable by imprisonment for up to five years or a fine of up to 500 days, depending on the severity of the offense.
The SRIJ offers accessible reporting channels to the public, allowing anyone to report suspicious activities related to illegal gambling. These reports can be made anonymously through a specific form, encouraging active participation from society in identifying illicit practices. Additionally, the SRIJ provides updated lists of licensed operators, making it easier for players to verify the legality of the platforms they use. These initiatives aim not only to suppress illegal gambling but also to promote a safe and responsible gaming environment for all users in Portugal.
Focus on Player Protection Through Education
Portuguese authorities have invested heavily in prevention through educational campaigns and consumer protection measures. The SRIJ, in partnership with the Intervention Service for Addictive Behaviors and Dependencies (SICAD), has launched awareness campaigns about the risks of illegal gambling, highlighting the advantages of gambling on licensed platforms: greater security, the possibility of self-exclusion, psychological support, and transparency in payments.
International Cooperation
Portugal is not alone in this fight. Several European countries face similar challenges and share experiences and strategies in combating illegal gambling. Collaboration with entities such as the EGBA and the European Forum of Gambling Regulators (GREF) has enabled the harmonization of site blocking practices, the exchange of information on repeat offenders, and the development of joint consumer protection policies.
The serious commitment that the Government and other Portuguese entities have demonstrated is consistent with the regulation of a sector that should be transparent to all: players, platforms, and the State. This effort to combat illegal gambling protects consumers and the integrity of the market and strengthens the national economy. The decrease in both financial values and the number of players seeking these platforms necessitates continued progress towards safety and transparency in the country’s gaming sector.
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