EU report: illegal gambling ads on Meta back in the spotlight

The Netherlands-based iGaming sector association VNLOK is stepping up its scrutiny of Meta and other major technology companies following a new study by the European Commission. The study highlights possible gaps in how advertisers are verified.

The research identified six areas that criminals use to commit online fraud through marketing campaigns. One of them is online gambling. According to the report, platforms such as Meta have allowed operators to advertise even in markets where they are not licensed.

It is also noted that Google has updated its certification policy for gambling and gaming advertisers. Meta, meanwhile, is criticized in many gambling markets for insufficient restrictions on Facebook and Instagram ads promoting unlicensed casinos. The Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) estimates that more than 4,600 illegal gambling ads were seen on Meta in April 2026 alone.

VNLOK is increasing its pressure after Meta was called to court earlier this year. The association is calling for changes to EU legislation to improve licence verification and to strengthen the detection of hidden illegal gambling campaigns. Chairman Björn Fuchs said the study clearly shows the scale of fraud problems on very large online platforms. Fuchs said this is directly linked to the Meta case and to responsibilities under the Digital Services Act.