The German Sports Betting Association (DSWV) has made a new statement in which it highlighted the risks of the illegal gambling market, arguing that there are 12 illegal websites for every one legal website.
Illegal Gambling Websites Are Well and Thriving in Germany
The DSWV gave concrete examples, arguing that 382 illegal German-language websites focus on offering the UEFA Champions League season, compared to only 34 legal alternatives. The DSWV highlighted this in a statement.
"Online, it's 11:1 in favor of the black market, and that puts players at risk," argues Mathias Dahms, president of the German Sports Betting Association.
"In the legal sports betting market, players benefit from guaranteed player protection, reliable payouts, and tax revenue for the common good. Illegal providers in the black market, on the other hand, do not adhere to any rules, offer no security, and have a higher risk of gambling addiction," Dahms explained in the statement.
While the stem of illegal gambling cannot be stemmed overnight, DSWV is at least hopeful that consumers could stay aware of what gambling sites they are using, double-checking if the sportsbook they are about to register to, or are already playing at, is in fact licensed by the GGL, the nation’s regulator.
"Players need to be particularly vigilant at this time of year so that they don't accidentally end up with illegal providers. This is another reason why the legal providers must be present with perimeter boards and TV advertising during the Champions League matches," Dahms added.
He said that it was the common interest of everyone involved, from the regulator to operators, to players, to ensure that the majority of players are sticking with the licensed market in Germany and shunning offshore operations.
