Greece recruits 40 enforcement officers in latest gambling crackdown
Greece is preparing to recruit 40 officials for a new gambling enforcement division as authorities step up efforts to dismantle illegal betting and casino operations.
The Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) has received funding to establish the expanded Inspection and Enforcement unit, which will support investigations into unlicensed gambling activity.
The recruitment drive follows legislation introduced in June that strengthened criminal penalties and investigative powers relating to illegal gambling.
Greek authorities estimate that approximately €1.8 billion was wagered through illegal gambling channels during 2025, with around 900,000 people participating.
Earlier government research placed illegal gambling activity at approximately €1.67 billion in 2024, with associated annual tax revenue losses estimated at €500 million.
Under the strengthened legislation, casino operators convicted of conducting illegal games of chance can face substantial financial penalties and lengthy prison sentences.
The framework provides for fines ranging from €50,000 to €700,000, with higher penalties for aggravated offences involving organised commercial operations, minors or premises reopened after enforcement action.
The expanded enforcement division will have additional investigative capabilities, allowing authorities to pursue individuals and organisations behind illegal gambling networks rather than relying exclusively on website blocking.
Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis has also identified digital surveillance and artificial intelligence as potential tools for tracing illegal gambling websites and their promotional networks.
Authorities have already referred complaints involving 18 social media influencers suspected of promoting unlawful gambling services for preliminary investigation.
The recruitment programme represents a further step in Greece’s attempt to protect its licensed gambling sector from operators that do not comply with domestic taxation, licensing or consumer protection requirements.
