Casinos in Cyprus Facing Legal Scrutiny Over Advertisements Violating National Regulations
The National Betting Authority (NBA) of Cyprus has issued a public statement, warning about a significant increase in ads for illegal online casinos on social media platforms. These advertisements, which often feature well-known personalities without their permission, pose a risk to Cypriot residents.
Under Cyprus's legal framework, online casino operations are not permitted. Operators must obtain a license to legally offer and advertise gambling services to local residents. The NBA maintains a register of betting companies authorized to operate in Cyprus, which is available for public reference and updated regularly.
The primary risks associated with online casino advertising in Cyprus include exposure to illegal/unlicensed gambling sites, misleading advertising using fake endorsements or unauthorized celebrity images, lack of consumer protections such as fair payout practices, privacy safeguards, and problem gambling support, and potential for addiction or financial harm due to aggressive or deceptive promotions.
To identify and avoid illegal services, the public should verify the operator's license status exclusively through the official National Betting Authority website at www.nba.gov.cy. They should also be cautious about gambling sites heavily promoted via social media ads, especially if they feature celebrities without consent or make unrealistic promises. Additionally, avoiding platforms that do not display clear licensing information or terms of use, and looking for responsible gambling warnings and limits, are crucial steps in ensuring safety.
The NBA's efforts are part of a broader international context, with social media's global reach enabling marketing campaigns from operators in other jurisdictions to easily reach Cypriot audiences, even when the services they promote are illegal under national law. Cooperation between regulators, technology platforms, and the public becomes essential in identifying and addressing illegal activity in the context of online gambling advertising.
The NBA reiterates that online casino operations remain prohibited in Cyprus and that only services listed in its official register are authorized to accept local customers. Engaging with unlicensed platforms can place players at significant risk, as there are no guarantees regarding the handling of personal information, the fairness of games, or the protection of funds. Losses incurred on these platforms cannot be recovered through legal channels, leaving users exposed to financial harm.
The NBA encourages citizens to submit reports if they encounter suspicious advertising campaigns. By working together, the NBA hopes to create a safer online environment for all Cypriot residents.
