German Court Clears Player in Unlicensed Online Casino Gambling Case
A German court has acquitted a player accused of illegal gambling for using online casinos without a local license. The ruling highlights ongoing confusion over the legality of player participation, even as operators face strict regulations under the 2021 State Treaty on Gaming.
The case raises questions about enforcement while unlicensed international platforms continue to attract German players.
The player was charged under German law, which requires online casinos to hold a license from the Joint Gaming Authority of the States (GGL). Since July 2021, the State Treaty on Gaming has permitted online slots and poker—but only through licensed operators. Despite this, many international platforms operate without German approval, offering easier access and more appealing games.
The court dismissed the charges, arguing that the player could not reasonably recognise their actions as illegal. It cited the principle of legal certainty, noting that the legality of participation—as opposed to operation—remains unclear. The ruling does not, however, reduce the risks for players using unlicensed sites, which still lack consumer protections.
Meanwhile, the number of licensed providers in Germany is growing slowly. These operators have invested heavily in compliance, putting them at a competitive disadvantage against unlicensed rivals. The GGL continues to expand its list of approved platforms, but the market for unregulated casinos keeps expanding.
Looking ahead, the gambling sector in Germany may see major changes. By 2026, a scheduled evaluation of the current Gambling Treaty (GlüStV) could lead to stricter rules, such as monthly deposit and bet limits. Technological shifts are also expected, including wider use of AI for fraud detection and personalised bonuses, blockchain-based games for transparency, and VR/AR integration for immersive play. Faster mobile gaming via 5G, cloud-based platforms, and even NFT-linked play-to-earn models could further reshape the industry.
The acquittal leaves the legal status of players using unlicensed casinos unresolved. Licensed operators still face tighter controls, while unregulated platforms continue to draw users with fewer restrictions. The next review of Germany’s gambling laws in 2026 will determine whether stricter enforcement or new technologies will address the current imbalance.
