Illegal betting on social media: the Customs and Monopolies Agency upholds Codacons’ complaint
The world of illegal betting is increasingly shifting towards social networks, exploiting popular platforms such as Telegram and Instagram. Codacons, Italy’s leading consumer association, recently filed a complaint with the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), highlighting the rise of unlawful practices in online sports betting. Following the intervention, ADM has launched targeted investigations to verify possible breaches of Italian regulations governing gambling advertising and promotion.
Codacon’s complaint
Codacon’s report, submitted on 15 September, draws attention to a widespread trend: the so-called “betting gurus”. These individuals operate through paid private channels, luring users with the promise of guaranteed winnings. By offering predictions and so-called winning strategies, they craft a misleading narrative. Their communication strategy is clear: highlight only successful bets while concealing losses. This selective portrayal fuels unrealistic expectations, particularly among younger audiences, a group especially vulnerable to these schemes.
ADM’s first investigations
In response to the complaint, ADM’s Gaming Directorate began monitoring the content circulating on the reported channels. Early findings confirmed the presence of messages and promotional material potentially in breach of existing law. Specifically, the Agency has pointed to possible violations of the Dignity Decree (Article 9 of Legislative Decree 87/2018) and the Balduzzi Decree (Article 7 of Legislative Decree 158/2012), both of which strictly regulate gambling-related advertising in Italy.
The involvement of AGCOM
In its official communication to Codacons, ADM confirmed that the material in question has been forwarded to the Italian Communications Authority (AGCOM). The regulator is now tasked with assessing whether the promotional content complies with the legal framework. The focus will be on both potential breaches of statutory provisions and adherence to the guidelines laid out in AGCOM Resolution No. 132/19/CONS, which governs commercial communication on gambling in digital media.
Young people and digital vulnerability
At the heart of this matter lies more than just the violation of the law: it is a question of consumer protection. Deceptive content shared across social platforms predominantly targets young people, who are increasingly present on apps such as Instagram and Telegram. The illusion of easy money, bolstered by carefully constructed narratives, represents a serious risk. When gambling is marketed as a fast track to wealth, it becomes a dangerous tool of manipulation, particularly for inexperienced users.
Institutional response
ADM’s decision to uphold Codacons’ complaint signals a significant institutional step. By involving AGCOM, the Agency has reinforced its commitment to addressing a phenomenon that moves swiftly in the grey area between legal gambling and outright illegality. In a regulated market such as Italy’s, consumer protection depends on the capacity of institutions to act swiftly against the misuse of digital channels.
An ongoing battle
The case underscores a broader challenge: the fight against illegal betting cannot be confined to traditional operators. Today, the real battleground is the digital space where users spend most of their time. The joint action by ADM and AGCOM reflects a wider strategy of oversight and prevention, designed to ensure that legislative safeguards are not circumvented by exploiting social media loopholes.
This case highlights a crucial issue: the regulation of legal gambling must evolve in step with the digital platforms through which it is promoted. The rise of “betting gurus” demonstrates how the boundary between entertainment and deception can blur, particularly when vulnerable audiences are involved. The response from Italian institutions marks a step forward, yet the challenge remains ongoing. Tackling illegal online betting means not only enforcing the law but also safeguarding the most fragile members of the digital community.
This article was first published in Italian on 10 October 2025.
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