Key Moments:
- The ADM has ordered the blockade of 23 additional unauthorized online gambling domains, raising the blacklist total to 11,481
- Italian ISPs are required to enact the site blocks by 24 September 2025, in line with official directives
- Regulatory strategies in Italy are drawing attention from other European regulators considering similar measures
Regulatory Reinforcement to Combat Illicit Gambling
The Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM) intensified its campaign against unlicensed online gambling. Additionally, it ordered the blocking of 23 more unauthorized websites. As a result of this directive, authorities increased the total number of blacklisted domains. The tally now stands at 11,481 since Italy introduced its formal ‘black list. The initiative demonstrates a robust and ongoing commitment by authorities to stem the spread of illegal gaming across digital platforms.
Implementation Details and Legal Framework
ADM official Luca Turchi signed the newest order. It requires all Italian ISPs to block access to the specified domains by 24 September 2025. Authorities will not allow any delays in implementation. The legal basis for this action is Article 102 of Decree-Law No. 104 of 14 August 2020 (converted into Law No. 126 on 13 October 2020), which empowers ADM to formally demand cessation of unlawful gambling. Affected sites will be redirected to the IP address 217.175.53.72, a system already established by ADM for enforcing access blocks. The public can view the up-to-date list of prohibited domains on ADM’s official website.
Magnitude of the Illicit Market
The vast number of blocked domains in Italy highlights the ongoing battle against unauthorized online gambling. The continuing attempts by illicit operators to re-enter the market through alternative domains or technical workarounds reveal the entrenched nature of the problem. The concerted effort includes regulatory, technical, and legal measures designed to protect consumers and preserve the integrity of Italy’s licensed gambling framework.
| Country | Number of Blocked Domains | Regulatory Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Italy | 11,481 | ISP site blocking, licensing requirements, public blacklist |
| Switzerland | ~2,600 | Telecom enforcement, public blacklist |
European Regulatory Interest and Comparisons
Italy’s enforcement model has captured the attention of international regulators. In Germany, ongoing assessments of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling feature discussions about curbing illegal online casinos. The comprehensive technical blocking and strict licensing requirements instituted by Italian authorities are being examined as potential benchmarks by other jurisdictions.
Switzerland offers an instructive comparison. Its Federal Gaming Commission (CFGD) maintains and publishes a blacklist featuring approximately 2,600 blocked online gambling domains, with a notable emphasis on transparency and clear communication to the public.
Ongoing Challenges and Commitment
The sheer volume of domains on Italy’s blacklist highlights its leadership in combating illegal gambling. The ADM continues to prioritize the eradication of unlicensed operators by leveraging legislative tools, vigilant monitoring, and collaboration with connectivity providers. The principal objective is to ensure all accessible online gambling services in Italy are appropriately licensed, safe, and fully compliant with national regulations.
Progress Toward a Regulated Gambling Sector
By blocking 23 additional unauthorized gambling websites, Italian authorities demonstrate their ongoing dedication to preventing illegal online gaming. The substantial number of blocked domains points to both the scale of the challenge and the determination to foster a lawful gaming environment. As regulatory discussions continue throughout Europe, Italy’s methods provide both inspiration and insight, demonstrating the value of a systematic and transparent approach to online gambling governance.
This article was first published in Italian on 11 September 2025.
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- Author
Daniel Williams
