Cyprus Regulator Warns of Casino Ads that Breach National Laws

Cyprus Regulator Warns of Casino Ads that Breach National Laws

The National Betting Authority of Cyprus has issued a public statement drawing attention to a steady increase in online casino advertising that targets residents through primary social media channels. According to the regulator, many of these promotions originate from operators that do not hold the required authorisation to provide gambling services within the country.

The authority noted a pattern in the way these ads are presented, often featuring well-known personalities in photographs or videos. It said there is evidence that some of these images are used without permission, which can give audiences the mistaken impression that the public figures endorse or are linked to the services being promoted.

Under Cyprus’s legal framework, online casino operations are not permitted. While licensed betting services such as sports wagering operate under strict regulations, casino-style online games remain prohibited. This makes any platform offering such services to local users an unlawful operator, regardless of whether it is based in Cyprus or abroad.

The NBA stressed that engaging with unlicensed platforms can place players at significant risk. Without regulatory oversight, there are no guarantees regarding the handling of personal information, the fairness of games, or the protection of funds. The regulator warned that losses incurred on these platforms cannot be recovered through legal channels, leaving users exposed to financial harm.

In its announcement, the authority urged the public to treat unsolicited online gambling promotions with caution. It advised users to investigate whether a service is licensed before depositing funds or providing sensitive data. Particular care should be taken when promotions appear in the form of clickable links, mobile apps, or embedded advertisements on social media platforms.

To support public awareness, the regulator maintains two key resources on its official website. One is a register of betting companies authorised to operate in Cyprus. The other is a list of blocked sites that violate local laws. Both are available for public reference and updated regularly. The NBA also encouraged citizens to submit reports if they encounter suspicious advertising campaigns.

The statement also drew attention to the broader issue of online gambling advertising in an international context. Social media’s global reach means that marketing campaigns from operators in other jurisdictions can easily reach Cypriot audiences, even when the services they promote are illegal under national law. In many cases, these operators take advantage of differences in regulation between countries, which complicates enforcement efforts.

One of the regulator’s main points of concern is the role of public figures in these ads. The use of recognisable personalities, whether through genuine endorsements or unauthorised use of likenesses, can increase the persuasive impact of an advertisement. When those appearances are fabricated or misleading, they risk influencing people to engage with unlawful services under false pretences.

The authority’s warning is part of an ongoing effort to combine enforcement with public education. While investigations and sanctions remain essential tools, informing citizens about how to recognise and avoid illegal services is seen as equally necessary. By encouraging users to check licensing details and question the authenticity of promotions, the NBA aims to limit the reach of operators that bypass local restrictions.

The growing visibility of such advertising also reflects a wider regulatory challenge. The speed and scale of digital advertising make it difficult for national authorities to monitor every promotion targeting their residents. This is particularly true for campaigns that cross borders or operate from locations with weaker oversight. As a result, cooperation between regulators, technology platforms, and the public becomes essential in identifying and addressing illegal activity.

In its closing remarks, the NBA reiterated that online casino operations remain prohibited in Cyprus and that only services listed in its official register are authorised to accept local customers. By remaining informed and cautious, the public can help reduce the market for unlicensed operators and protect themselves from the risks these services present.