NRA Blocks 600 Unlicensed Gambling Sites in Bulgaria

In a decisive move to maintain the integrity of its gambling industry, the Bulgarian National Revenue Agency (NRA) has taken stringent actions against unlicensed online gambling sites.

Over the last three months of 2023, the NRA cracked down on more than 600 such websites, sending a clear message that unauthorized operators will not be tolerated.

A Growing List of Blocked Sites

Among the websites blocked by the NRA were well-known names like 22bet, Leon Casino, and Luckyhit, all operating without a valid license. These unlicensed sites were discovered to facilitate account creation and accept bets through various payment methods, posing a significant risk to players’ interests and industry standards.

The NRA operates within strict regulatory guidelines, offering operators a three-day window to cease their activities voluntarily. Should they fail to comply, the NRA can then seek a Magistrates Court order instructing internet service providers to block access to these illicit websites, effectively cutting off their operations in Bulgaria.

Repeat Offenders Face Consequences

This isn’t the first time the NRA has taken action against unlicensed gambling operators. Just last September, the tax regulator revealed that it had blocked access to over 150 gambling websites. While specific website names were not disclosed, the NRA did emphasize that a majority of them lacked licensing within the European Union.

Self-Exclusion Scheme’s Remarkable Uptake

In addition to its crackdown on illegal operators, the NRA has reported significant success in its national gambling self-exclusion scheme. Since its relaunch in December 2022, over 24,000 individuals have registered with the scheme. This initiative had been temporarily halted due to regulatory changes.

Access to the self-exclusion register is currently limited to specific employees, but gambling operators can request access to monitor their customer base and identify players who have chosen to self-exclude. The scheme is open to anyone, allowing them to sign up for a minimum period of two years either at an NRA office or through an online platform.

In conclusion, the Bulgarian National Revenue Agency’s unwavering commitment to regulating its gambling industry is evident through its actions against unlicensed websites and the success of its self-exclusion scheme. These measures collectively ensure that Bulgaria maintains a safe, compliant, and responsible gambling environment for all its citizens.