MGA warns of fake iGaming sites impersonating licensed operators

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has issued a fresh warning to players after identifying several iGaming sites that it says are falsely presenting themselves as licensed or authorised operators. The regulator has urged consumers to verify the licensing status of gambling websites before creating accounts or depositing funds, highlighting the importance of using only operators that appear on its official register.

According to the Authority, a number of websites have been misleading consumers by suggesting they are licensed, regulated or otherwise authorised by the MGA. The regulator stressed that these claims are false and that it has no association with the websites identified in its latest public notice.

MGA identifies websites impersonating licensed operators

The warning follows the Authority's observation of what it describes as a growing pattern of websites attempting to exploit the reputation of Malta's gambling regulatory framework. The regulator stated that these websites appear designed to create the impression that they operate under an MGA licence, potentially giving consumers a false sense of security.

The three websites specifically identified by the Authority are:

• www.manekicasino.bet
• www.dragonaracasino.uk.com
• www.slot-hunter.at

The MGA emphasised that it has no connection whatsoever with these domains or with any other website, platform or entity falsely claiming an association with the Authority or with MGA-licensed operators.

It further stated that any references displayed on these websites to MGA licences or regulatory approval are false and misleading.

Players urged to verify operator licences

The Authority reminded consumers that gambling with licensed operators provides an important layer of regulatory oversight designed to protect players.

MGA-licensed operators are required to comply with strict regulatory obligations covering consumer protection, responsible gambling, anti-money laundering requirements, operational integrity and player fund safeguards. By contrast, operators that are not licensed by the Authority do not fall within this regulatory framework.

As a result, consumers who use unauthorised gambling websites may not benefit from the same protections available when using properly licensed operators.

The regulator therefore recommends that anyone considering using an online gambling service should first verify whether the operator is listed in the official MGA Licensee Register before registering or making a payment.

Consumer protection remains a regulatory priority

The latest warning forms part of the MGA's wider strategy to protect consumers and maintain confidence in Malta's regulated gaming sector.

Online impersonation has become an increasing concern across several regulated industries, with fraudsters frequently attempting to misuse the names of trusted regulators and licensed businesses. Within the online gambling sector, displaying a recognised regulator's logo or falsely claiming to hold a licence can be used to persuade consumers that a website operates legitimately.

The MGA's public notices are intended to alert consumers whenever websites are identified as making misleading licensing claims.

By publishing the domains publicly, the Authority enables players to recognise suspicious websites and avoid engaging with operators that are not authorised to provide regulated gambling services.

Strong regulatory activity during 2025

The regulator's latest warning comes shortly after publication of its 2025 Annual Report, which highlights continued regulatory enforcement across Malta's gaming industry.

According to the report, the MGA issued 35 cease and desist letters during 2025, together with 22 formal warnings and 30 administrative penalties with a combined value of €162,520.

The Authority also suspended one gaming licence while cancelling two others following regulatory action.

Its compliance programme included:

• 15 full-scope compliance audits
• 109 thematic compliance reviews
• 21 AML/CFT examinations

The report also notes that remediation measures and penalties imposed by Malta's Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) totalled just under €26,500.

These figures demonstrate the Authority's continued focus on monitoring licensed operators while also taking action where regulatory breaches are identified.

Licensing activity reflects continued market development

Despite ongoing enforcement work, Malta continues to attract gaming businesses seeking licences under its regulatory framework.

During 2025, the MGA received 38 applications for new gaming licences and approved 19 of them.

Two applications were rejected after the Authority determined they contained false or misleading information.

The regulator also received 10 licence renewal applications, approving eight renewals.

One of the more notable trends identified in the report is the continued growth of the B2B sector.

Business-to-business licence applications represented 24 of the 38 applications submitted during the year, while 12 of the 19 licences issued were B2B licences.

The figures reinforce Malta's position as an important jurisdiction for technology providers, platform suppliers, sportsbook developers, game studios and other service providers supporting the global online gaming industry.

Oversight extends beyond commercial gaming

The MGA's responsibilities extend beyond commercial online gambling.

The Authority also oversees various lower-risk gaming activities carried out within Malta.

During 2025, it issued:

• 2,043 permits for non-profit tombola events
• 22 permits for non-profit lotteries
• 118 certificates for commercial communication games

The regulator additionally completed 1,266 due diligence assessments.

Where applications required additional scrutiny, cases were referred to the Fit and Proper Committee, which determined that seven entities or individuals did not satisfy the required suitability standards.

These assessments form part of the Authority's wider objective of ensuring that individuals and businesses participating within Malta's gaming sector meet the necessary integrity and compliance requirements.

Why licence verification matters

For consumers, checking whether an operator holds a valid gaming licence remains one of the simplest ways to reduce potential risks when choosing an online gambling platform.

Fraudulent websites may imitate branding, display copied regulatory logos or make misleading claims regarding licences in an attempt to appear legitimate.

The MGA advises players to verify an operator directly through its official Licensee Register rather than relying solely on claims made on a gambling website itself.

By using regulated operators, consumers benefit from oversight designed to promote fair gaming, player protection, dispute resolution procedures and regulatory accountability.

The latest notice also serves as a reminder that regulatory warnings can change over time as new websites emerge. Consumers are therefore encouraged to remain cautious whenever encountering unfamiliar gambling platforms or websites claiming regulatory approval.

Conclusion – Malta Gaming Authority warns of fake iGaming sites

The Malta Gaming Authority's latest public warning highlights the continuing challenge posed by unauthorised websites attempting to imitate regulated operators within the online gambling sector. By identifying websites that allegedly make false licensing claims, the regulator aims to reduce consumer risk while reinforcing confidence in Malta's regulated gaming market. For players, verifying an operator's licence before registering or depositing remains one of the most effective steps towards safer online gambling and helps distinguish legitimate operators from websites making misleading regulatory claims.

FAQs

What warning has the MGA issued?
The MGA has warned that several websites are falsely claiming to be licensed or authorised by the Authority.

Which websites were identified by the MGA?
The Authority named manekicasino.bet, dragonaracasino.uk.com and slot-hunter.at.

Why are these websites a concern?
According to the MGA, they contain false and misleading references to MGA licences or authorisation.

How can players verify a gambling website?
Players should check the operator in the MGA's official Licensee Register before using its services.

What protections do MGA-licensed operators provide?
Licensed operators must comply with regulatory standards covering consumer protection, responsible gambling and compliance.

Does the MGA regulate every gambling website?
No. The Authority regulates only operators that hold a valid MGA licence.

What should consumers do before depositing money?
They should verify that the operator is authorised and listed in the official register.

How many cease and desist letters did the MGA issue in 2025?
The Authority issued 35 cease and desist letters during the year.

Did the MGA reject any licence applications?
Yes. Two applications were rejected because they contained false or misleading submissions.

Why is licence verification important?
It helps consumers identify authorised operators and reduces the risk of using unregulated gambling websites.