Google Proposes Reinforced IP Blocking for Advertisers Involved in Gambling Industries
The Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), also known as the Joint Gambling Authority of the States, is warning against letting up in the fight against the illicit gambling market. The organization, focused on keeping gambling safe in Germany, might implement IP blocking for unlicensed gambling advertisers next.
GGL Moves Towards IP Blocking for Unregulated Advertisers
Recently, the GGL stated in a post on its website the topics discussed at a conference called by the Deutsche Automatenwirtschaft (DAW) in Berlin, Germany. The event saw regulatory bodies, stakeholders, and academia discussing current challenges in the German gambling industry.
GGL CEO, Ronald Benter, attended the conference and spoke about the importance of diverse tools to combat the illegal gambling market. Benter proposed introducing a new standard for IP blocking illegal gambling advertisers.
"It's essential to introduce a new IP blocking standard for advertisers as soon as possible," Benter stated in the post.
Benter emphasized the need to build a strong regulatory framework allowing businesses to thrive while taking no shortcuts when it comes to player protection and safety. To protect players, Benter argued that illegal gambling, including its advertising, should be targeted. The GGL has already made strides in this area, collaborating with Google to ensure only legitimate brands can advertise.
Consistent Strategy Key to Beating Illegal Gambling
Despite previous successes, the GGL acknowledges the challenge in completely eradicating illegal gambling. Benter admits a more robust approach to advertisers promoting unauthorized brands, particularly an IP block, is needed.
"As an enforcement authority, we tackle every form of unauthorized advertising," the GGL clarified.
"We guarantee that all approved providers compete on a level playing field," Benter added.
The GGL understands that vanquishing the black market will require a sustained effort, as demonstrated by countries like Sweden, the Netherlands, and Australia, which employ various strategies to continue curbing illegal gambling.
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Enrichment Insights:
The GGL has undertaken several initiatives in Germany's battle against illegal gambling:
- Regulation of Game Manufacturers: The GGL advocates for game manufacturers to refuse offering games to illegal gambling operators, decreasing the supply chain to unlawful online gambling services.
- Licensing and Compliance Enforcement: The GGL enforces regulations established under the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021), including ensuring operators adhere to player protection measures.
- Reality Checks and Player Protections: Operators are required to offer players reality checks showing their gambling duration and spending, as well as five-second wait times between online slot spins, and monitoring player behavior for signs of problem gambling.
- Investigations and Penalties: The GGL investigates illegal or unlicensed operators, which face fines up to €500,000 and criminal charges for law-breaking activities.
- Player Self-Exclusion and Betting Limits: Players must set deposit and betting limits and can opt for self-exclusion to temporarily or permanently block themselves from gambling activities.
- Following the GGL's warning, the organization might implement IP blocking for unlicensed gambling advertisers next, as part of their efforts to combat illegal gambling activities.
- GGL CEO, Ronald Benter, suggested the introduction of a new IP blocking standard for illegal gambling advertisers at the conference organized by the Deutsche Automatenwirtschaft (DAW) in Germany.
- Benter advocated for a strong regulatory framework, highlighting the importance of diverse tools, such as IP blocking, to combat unauthorized gambling while allowing businesses to thrive.
- In line with international efforts in countries like Sweden, the Netherlands, and Australia, the GGL is planning a sustained effort to target not only illegal gambling but also its advertising to protect players and ensure that approved providers compete on a level playing field.
