Italy fights against black market with “cybersecurity shield”
Summary
Italy’s Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) is preparing a new measure in the forthcoming Budget Law to tackle illegal gambling by introducing a “cybersecurity shield” that will block connections to unauthorised gambling domains on devices providing public internet access. Businesses that offer public Wi‑Fi or terminals — cafés, hotels, kiosks, libraries and similar venues — will be required to install the anti‑illegality software on PCs, kiosks and tablets.
The technology is being developed jointly by ADM (the Customs & Monopolies Agency) and state tech hub SOGEI. Non‑compliant operators face fines, which will be steeper where organised access is detected, and deliberate efforts to steer users to prohibited sites (for example using closed browsing modes) could trigger higher penalties or criminal charges. ADM recently ordered blocks on 23 unauthorised domains, taking the total blacklisted domains to 11,481.
Industry groups say the market for illegal gambling remains significant — the EGBA estimated around €1bn of illegal activity in 2023 — and point to the Dignity Decree advertising ban as a driver of black‑market growth. Operators argue clearer, regulated advertising and stronger co‑operation could help curb illicit activity.
Key Points
- MEF plans a “cybersecurity shield” to block unauthorised gambling domains on public‑access devices.
- Any business offering public internet (cafés, hotels, kiosks, libraries) will be required to install the software on PCs, tablets and kiosks.
- The tool is being developed by ADM and state tech hub SOGEI; enforcement includes fines and possible criminal exposure for deliberate facilitation.
- ADM recently blocked 23 domains, bringing the national blacklist to 11,481 unauthorised gambling sites.
- Industry bodies link the growth of the black market to the Dignity Decree advertising ban; EGBA estimated ~€1bn in illegal activity in 2023.
Why should I read this?
Because if you run a bar, kiosk, hotel, library or work in the Italian iGaming ecosystem, this isn’t just background noise — it could force new tech installs, change compliance checks and raise the risk of real fines or worse. Short and sharp: this is where enforcement meets everyday businesses, so pay attention.
Source
Source: https://igamingexpert.com/regions/europe/italy-gets-tough-black-market-operators/
