Crackdown on illegal gambling in Italy: over 28,000 inspections and 721 websites blocked in 2024
Italy’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Giancarlo Giorgetti, presented to the Chamber of Deputies the latest report on the efficiency of public spending and the performance of the Ministry’s administrative action. Within the document, particular attention was given to the gambling sector, a field marked by its fiscal importance, social impact, and vulnerability to illegal practices.
In 2024, authorities carried out 28,031 inspections, a figure that highlights the intensification of checks conducted by the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) and other enforcement bodies. The monitoring rate of betting shops and amusement machines stood at 25.4%, while inspections in Bingo halls, Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs), and betting outlets reached 39.5%, showing a tighter grip on high-risk areas.
Illegal websites shut down and targeted checks
A key focus of the report concerned the fight against unauthorised gambling. During 2024, 721 websites offering illegal gaming services were shut down, a crucial step to safeguard consumers and curb the profits of the underground market. At the same time, ADM conducted 298 targeted checks on gaming accounts generated by its internal monitoring systems, confirming the priority given to digital channels, increasingly used by players.
Verification also extended to 22 online platforms, as well as VLT and Bingo systems and betting networks, including audits on certification processes performed by authorised bodies. This oversight work strengthens market credibility and reduces risks of malpractice across the industry.
Protecting minors and social responsibility
The protection of vulnerable individuals remains at the heart of the Ministry’s strategy. In 2024, 13,004 checks were carried out specifically to combat underage gambling, as required by national legislation. The positivity rate of these inspections stood at 10.4%, highlighting the need for constant vigilance.
Repressive measures led to the suspension of 44 establishments found in breach of the rules. In addition, 57% of self-declarations linked to the RIES registry were verified, ensuring that operators active in the market comply with regulatory standards.
Economic impact and fiscal revenues
Beyond regulatory enforcement, the report also underscores the economic relevance of the gambling sector. In 2024, overall tax revenues from gambling amounted to €11.6 billion, confirming the sector’s significant contribution to public finances.
Nevertheless, the government reiterated that fiscal gains are not the sole objective. The primary goal remains creating a safe, legal, and responsible gaming environment, limiting the space for illicit operations and safeguarding citizens.
New regulatory framework and sector reform
The year 2024 also marked the approval of Legislative Decree No. 41/2024, which launched a comprehensive reform of the gambling sector, beginning with online gaming. ADM played a decisive role in drafting the new framework, aimed at ensuring greater transparency and sustainability of the industry.
Through the Committee for the Prevention and Repression of Illegal Gambling and the Protection of Minors (Co.PRe.G.I.), ADM coordinated operations nationwide, developing strategies in close cooperation with law enforcement agencies and technological partners. Specialised digital tools allowed for better identification of regulatory loopholes and risk scenarios.
Guardia di Finanza and enforcement against illegality
The role of the Guardia di Finanza proved equally crucial. In 2024, 378 individuals were reported for offences related to illegal gambling, while 345 clandestine betting points were uncovered. Investigations also revealed around €2.4 million in unpaid tax on gambling activities, demonstrating that the issue extends beyond legality and touches directly on fiscal integrity.
The challenge for 2025 will be to continue along this path, combining economic priorities with social responsibility in an increasingly digital and globalised environment.
This article was first published in Italian on 2 October 2025.
All roads lead to Rome, 03–06 November 2025. SiGMA Central Europe takes centre stage at the Fiera Roma, uniting 30,000 delegates, 1,200 exhibitors, and 700+ speakers. This is where legacies are built, and the future takes shape. Connect with the innovators’ driving change.
