Coljuegos Takes Action: Over 46,000 Blocking Orders Against Illegal Gambling Sites Since 2022

Colombia is taking a serious stance against unlicensed online gambling offerings. Coljuegos, the national regulatory authority, has issued more than 46,000 blocking orders against illegal websites since the government change in 2022. This marks a significant escalation in efforts to clean up the gambling market and protect players.

The fight against illegal gambling is a central concern for Coljuegos. The authority is utilizing new technologies and strengthened cooperation with internet providers. The goal is clear: more control, more security, and a healthy development of the regulated market.

Numbers and facts

Since 2022, Coljuegos has imposed a total of 46,228 blocking orders against websites operating without a license. This figure is remarkable: it accounts for 83 percent of all blocking requests ever made by Coljuegos since its inception. In total, 55,658 blocking orders have been issued to date. It is clear that the current administration has significantly accelerated the pace. Previous administrations only issued about 9,000 blocking requests over a longer period.

President Marco Emilio Hincapié of Coljuegos strongly emphasizes this development: > "Never before has an administration fought illegal gambling with such force. At Coljuegos, and through our Artificial Intelligence Center, we have optimized the detection and blocking of unauthorized websites." - Marco Emilio Hincapié, President of Coljuegos

The authority works closely with the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (MinTIC). The aim is to simplify and accelerate the blocking process through internet service providers. The goal is to "effectively block any page that operates or promotes illegal gambling," according to Hincapié. He strongly advises players to use only the 15 operators authorized by Coljuegos. This is the only way to protect data and stakes. In addition, a portion of the revenue from the regulated market goes into social projects and healthcare for less fortunate Colombians.

Background

Coljuegos pursues a dual strategy: it rigorously combats illegal gambling while simultaneously expanding the regulated market. Just in May, the authority licensed its 15th operator, MrYoker. This provider, operated by Global Vixto, received a five-year license for online casino, live casino, and sports betting. Coljuegos expects tax revenues of the equivalent of 7.4 million US dollars (COP27.3 billion) from MrYoker during the first concession period.

The use of artificial intelligence is a crucial step forward. It enables faster and more precise identification of unlicensed platforms. Colombia is thus establishing itself as one of the most proactive markets in Latin America in the fight against unregulated gambling. The approach serves to protect players and simultaneously secures state revenues.

Why it matters for German players

German players operate in an already highly regulated environment. Since the entry into force of the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021), online gambling has been permitted in Germany under strict conditions. The Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) issues licenses to reputable providers. It monitors the market and enforces the rules. These include a stake limit of 1 Euro per spin on online slot machines and a monthly deposit limit of 1,000 Euro.

Players in Germany should only play on websites licensed by the GGL. These can be found on the GGL's so-called whitelist. Providers without a German license, often with MGA or Curacao licenses, do not offer legal games in Germany. Such offers entail risks, such as a lack of player protection and unclear legal claims. The cross-state blocking system LUGAS protects German players from excessive gambling behavior and ensures compliance with the limits. Those who play with unlicensed providers are not subject to these protective measures.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For GGL-licensed casinos in Germany, strict regulation means strengthening their business model. Consistent measures against illegal providers create fair competition. Player trust in the regulated market increases. The GGL strives to clean up the German market similarly to Coljuegos. Only reputable providers who adhere to the rules will succeed in the long term. This ensures higher standards in player protection and stable tax revenues for the state. It is a clear signal to black sheep: illegality does not pay off.