The Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption and Agenda 2030 has announced fines totaling over 81 million euros on 17 online game operators for serious or very serious infractions. These penalties were imposed by the Ministry led by Pablo Bustinduy, which published the final sanctions in the online betting and gaming sector that took effect in Spain in the second half of 2023.
Out of the 17 operators sanctioned, ten were fined for very serious infractions. The General Directorate of Gambling Regulation (DGOJ) issued these resolutions, resulting in the disqualification of nine operators for two years and a four-year disqualification for the National Organization of Spanish and European Disabled People (ONDEE), which received the largest fine of 35 million euros.
The very serious infractions primarily pertain to online gambling operators that operate without a license in Spain. Companies such as Rabadi, Uno Digital Media, and Eight Stars were among those penalized with fines of 5 million euros each. In total, over 80 million euros in sanctions were imposed on operators for very serious infractions.
Additionally, DGOJ identified serious violations in seven other operators in the online betting and gaming sector who held licenses but committed infractions under Law 13/2011 on the regulation of gambling. These operators received fines totaling over 1,150,000 euros.
The Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption and Agenda 2030 has published findings on the sanctioning resolutions that have become final since July 2021. This includes over 139 penalties with fines exceeding over €333 million. Serious and very serious administrative violations will be published on the DGOJ website after notification to the involved parties. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to enforcing regulations and maintaining a fair and safe online gaming environment.
In conclusion, these sanctions serve as a reminder to all online game operators to adhere strictly to regulations and avoid any illegal activities that may result in severe consequences such as hefty fines or even disqualification from operating within Spain’s borders.
