The Cyprus Gaming and Casino Supervision Commission has issued a stern warning to the public against playing online and being deceived by misleading ads promoting such illegal casinos.
‘We have recently recorded a rise in fraudulent activity by illicit webpages and platforms as well as deceiving ads promoting internet casino services in the Republic of Cyprus’, the Commission said in a written statement.
A number of these ads are part of an organised fraud ring, citing the Republic’s licensed casino as a lure to trap citizens and defraud them of funds or personal data.
The Gaming Commission makes clear that approved casinos in Cyprus operate only with a physical presence as all forms of online casino are prohibited in the Republic.
‘So any platform offering online casino services in Cyprus or claiming to be the official Cyprus casino is simply illegal’, the Commission added.
Participating in illegal internet gaming comes with many risks:-
- No protection of earnings or deposits: There is no guarantee that money or earnings will be returned.
- Personal data challenges: Possibility of theft, abuse or leaking of sensitive information.
- Financial Transaction risks: Fraud, non-approved charges and stealing payment data.
- No Responsible Gaming measures: No limits, self-exclusion or security valves.
- Minors access: Minors can easily play as identification processes are inadequate.
- No complaints: No credible mechanisms to settle disputes.
Integrated Casino Resort (ICR) Cyprus is the only licensed casino chain in Cyprus and that includes its satellite installations in Nicosia, Famagusta and Paphos, operating exclusively as physical casinos.
The Commission is always coordinating with competent authorities to deal with illicit internet gaming activities and is encouraging people to come forward and report any such cases, both to the Gaming Authority as well as the police electronic crime unit.
The Gaming Commission’s contact info is the following:-
0035725573800
Email:info@cgc.org.cy
Site: https://www.cgc.org.cy/