The ANJ discloses France's €1.5 billion exposure to illegal market casinos.

Illegal online casinos targeting France generate an estimated €748m to €1.5bn in GGR, says a study commissioned by the country's gambling regulator, Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ).

The PwC study identified 510 sites and 14 mobile apps offering online casino products in France, with around 3 million French citizens visiting them. About 79% of the GGR is generated by players considered at risk.

ANJ has blocked 1,230 URLs since March 2022, but the law does not provide specific tools for the regulator to combat illegal offerings.

 

[CR7]

The study commissioned by the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) reveals the alarming scale of illegal online casinos targeting France. These illicit operations are estimated to generate between €748 million and €1.5 billion in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR). This significant sum underscores the urgent need for effective measures to tackle the issue.

The study conducted by PwC sheds light on the extent of the problem. It identifies a total of 510 websites and 14 mobile apps that offer online casino products catering to French citizens. This indicates a substantial presence of illegal operators in the country's online gambling market. Furthermore, it reveals that approximately 3 million French citizens visit these sites, highlighting the popularity of illegal online casinos among the population.

One concerning finding is that around 79% of the GGR is generated by players who are considered at risk. This implies that vulnerable individuals are more likely to engage with these illegal platforms, potentially exacerbating issues related to problem gambling and addiction.

To combat this issue, the ANJ has been proactive in its efforts. Since March 2022, they have blocked approximately 1,230 URLs associated with illegal online casinos. However, the study points out that the current legislation does not provide the ANJ with specific tools to effectively combat these illegal offerings. This poses a challenge to the regulator, as they require additional legal authority and resources to counter the activities of these rogue operators.

In light of these findings, it is evident that urgent action is needed to address the rise of illegal online casinos in France. This includes the implementation of stronger laws and regulations that empower the ANJ to take decisive action against these illegal operators. Additionally, public awareness campaigns on the risks of engaging with illegal gambling platforms can help educate the population about the dangers involved.

By implementing a comprehensive approach that combines legal reforms, increased enforcement, and public education, France can protect its citizens from the harmful impact of illegal online casinos. Efforts should be made to raise awareness about legal options available to consumers, ensuring they can enjoy a safe and regulated online gambling experience.