Greece Strengthens Illegal Gambling Crackdown With New Staff and Penalties

Greece is expanding its efforts against illegal gambling as the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) prepares to recruit 40 employees for its strengthened Inspection and Enforcement division.

The recruitment follows legislation passed in June 2026, which allows the regulator to expand its permanent workforce from 80 to 110 employees. New positions will focus on enforcement, cybersecurity, IT and market monitoring.

According to Minister of National Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis, Greece's illegal gambling market generated approximately €1.8 billion in activity during 2025, involving around 900,000 people. The government estimates annual revenue losses of €400 million.

The new legislation introduces tougher penalties for illegal gambling operators. Violations can result in prison sentences of at least 10 years and fines between €50,000 and €700,000.

More serious offences, including gambling operations involving minors or reopening closed gambling venues, can lead to fines of up to €800,000.

The EEEP will also receive additional investigative powers to target individuals and criminal networks behind illegal gambling operations.

Authorities are increasingly using digital tools and artificial intelligence to identify illegal websites and monitor gambling promotions.

Investigations are already underway against 18 streamers and influencers accused of promoting unlicensed gambling platforms through social media.

The regulator is also reviewing how licensed operators manage and reward VIP customers, having requested information from all 18 licensed gambling companies.