As the UEFA Champions League officially kicks off, the German Sports Betting Association (DSWV) recently issued a warning to bettors to identify legitimate operating platforms. The agency pointed out that there are currently only 34 licensed sports betting websites in the German market, while the number of websites illegally offering services in German is as high as 382, with legal platforms accounting for less than one tenth.
DSWV President Mathias Dahms stated that the ratio of illegal operators to legal platforms is as high as 11:1, which poses significant risks to bettors. During the Champions League, betting volumes typically see a significant increase, and consumers need to be more vigilant and choose regulated legal platforms for betting.
Legal sports betting platforms can provide bettors with multiple protections, including strict player protection measures, reliable prize payment mechanisms, and tax contributions. Illegal operating sites not only lack these protections but may also expose participants to higher risks of addiction and security threats. According to German law, individuals involved in illegal sports betting activities may even face criminal penalties of up to six months in prison or fines.
In identifying legal operators, DSWV provides clear guidance. Bettors can check the whitelist on the official website of the German gambling regulatory authority GGL (Gemeinsamen Glücksspielbehörde der Länder) to confirm platform qualifications. All legal operator websites clearly display the GGL logo, which is an important sign of platform compliance.
Advertising placement has also become an important basis for distinguishing between legal and illegal operators. In the Champions League and Bundesliga events, only licensed operators are allowed to advertise in sports venues and television broadcasts. This strict advertising regulation provides consumers with an additional basis for identification.
Dahms emphasizes that strengthening the legal market, combating illegal operations aligns with the common interests of regulatory bodies, operating companies, and bettors. This is the only way to ensure effective implementation of player protection measures, maintain industry integrity, and secure tax revenue. As the Champions League progresses, DSWV advises bettors to prioritize regulated platforms to ensure their rights are fully protected.
