The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding a number of unauthorized websites purporting to possess MGA licensing and/or regulatory approval.
By naming a specific number of URLs, the regulator indeed points to a fraudulent misrepresentation of the licensing status, thereby deceiving the consumer. The MGA also confirmed that it is not in any way associated with these websites and, furthermore, stressed that only operators duly licensed may provide gambling services in terms of Maltese legislation.
The consumer is therefore advised to verify the licensing status via the MGA's official register before engaging in any dealings with a gaming operator. Player dealings in unlicensed sites expose them to high financial and security risks as the operators are not bound by Malta's consumer protection regulations, anti-money laundering regulations, or responsible gaming regulations.
This warning aligns with the increased regulatory enforcement initiatives of the MGA, which recently reported revenues of €84.1m for 2024, issued 17 new licenses, and levied 25 administrative fines.