Malta Gaming Authority Warns of Two Unlicensed Gambling Sites

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has issued a stern warning about unlicensed gambling sites making false licence claims.

Two online platforms, Vavadapsv.com and Vulkanind.site, are falsely asserting they hold MGA licences, misleading unsuspecting players.

Learn how these false claims pose risks to consumers and what steps the MGA is taking to protect the public.

Discover why verifying gaming licences is essential for safe and secure online gambling experiences.

MGA Alerts Consumers to Unlicensed Gambling Sites Making False Licence Claims

Key Points

1. MGA warns against Vavadapsv.com and Vulkanind.site, calling their licence claims “false and misleading.”
2. The regulator emphasizes the importance of verifying gaming licences to avoid unregulated gambling risks.
3. The MGA’s 2023 report highlights increased regulatory action, including 11 licence cancellations and €172,900 in fines.

MGA Issues Warning About False Gambling Licence Claims

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has alerted the public to two gambling websites, Vavadapsv.com and Vulkanind.site, which falsely claim to hold MGA licences. According to the regulator, these platforms display misleading text implying MGA oversight despite having no such authorisation.

Unregulated Sites Pose Consumer Risks

The MGA stated, “Any reference to the regulator or an MGA gaming licence by these brands is false and misleading.”

Consumers engaging with unlicensed operators face heightened risks, as these platforms lack the safeguards mandated under Malta’s regulatory framework. Such entities operate outside the scope of MGA regulations, making transactions inherently unsafe.

The authority urged consumers to confirm a website’s licensing status before using its services. “Authorised persons comply with strict legal requirements to protect consumers. Unlicensed entities operate unregulated, posing significant risks,” the MGA added.

MGA’s 2023 Regulatory Actions

The MGA’s recent annual report for 2023 underscores its rigorous oversight of both land-based and online gambling. Key highlights include:

• 24 new licence applications were received, down from 41 in 2022.
• 15 licences were granted, while 13 applications were rejected or withdrawn.
• The MGA issued 28 warnings, suspended nine licences, and cancelled 11.

In addition, 19 administrative penalties and one regulatory settlement amounted to €172,900 in fines, reflecting the MGA’s commitment to enforcing compliance.

ESG Reporting Standard Progress

The report also celebrated the success of the MGA’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting standard, launched in 2023. So far, 14 online gambling operators have achieved the approval seals under this voluntary framework.

The ESG Code includes two tiers of reporting:

• Tier 1: Foundational standards.
• Tier 2: Advanced criteria.

Seals remain valid for a year, with operators encouraged to improve their ESG disclosures annually.

The Importance of Verifying Licences

This warning from the MGA highlights the critical need for consumers to verify gaming licences before engaging with any platform. Licensed operators adhere to stringent legal frameworks, providing a safer gambling environment. By contrast, unlicensed sites often lack consumer protections, increasing the risks of financial loss and exploitation.

The MGA’s proactive measures, from issuing fines to cancelling licences, demonstrate its dedication to upholding the integrity of Malta’s gaming industry.

The MGA’s action against Vavadapsv.com and Vulkanind.site underscores its firm stance on maintaining consumer safety and regulatory compliance. With continued efforts to streamline licensing and promote ESG standards, the authority reinforces Malta’s reputation as a hub for safe and regulated online gaming. Always verify a site’s licence status to ensure a secure and trustworthy gambling experience.