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The MGA raised concerns after identifying two gambling websites that falsely claimed to hold Maltese licences, prompting a new reminder about the risks of unregulated operators.
The Malta Gaming Authority issued a public notice confirming that lavbet321.com and kasinoseta.com have no connection to the regulator and are not licensed in Malta. The Authority said any statements suggesting these platforms operate under Maltese approval are false, adding that unlicensed sites pose clear risks to consumers who rely on them for gaming services.
Two domains accused of misleading players
The regulator said the websites used claims that could give players a false sense of protection.
According to the MGA, both domains presented themselves as entities linked to the Authority or suggested they held Maltese licences. The regulator said these claims were misleading and do not reflect their actual status. The notice forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce the influence of unlicensed operators offering services in Malta and abroad.
The Authority added that unauthorised operators fall outside the rules required under Maltese law. This means they do not meet the standards for consumer protection, fair gaming practices or responsible gambling measures that licensed platforms must follow.
Regulator urges players to check licence status
The MGA reminded consumers that its public register shows all approved operators.
The Authority encouraged players to verify whether a company is legally authorised before using any of its services. It highlighted the importance of its public register, which lists all operators permitted to offer gaming under Maltese regulations. This allows players to check a platform’s status and avoid relying on unregulated websites that do not offer the protections built into licensed environments.
The warning aligns with the MGA’s broader focus on reducing illegal activity across the online gaming sector and reinforcing the responsibilities placed on licensed operators.
New player self-assessment tool introduced in October
The tool aims to help players identify early signs of harmful gambling behaviour.
In October 2025, the MGA launched a new self-assessment tool designed to help individuals review their gambling habits. The regulator said the tool provides tailored guidance and directs players toward support services if needed.
An MGA spokesperson said the aim is to help people recognise harmful behaviour earlier and understand what assistance is available. The tool was developed in consultation with organisations including Caritas Malta, Agenzija Sedqa, the OASI Foundation and the Responsible Gaming Foundation. It complements existing measures such as operator-led monitoring and self-exclusion systems.
MGA outlines 2025 oversight priorities
The regulator said player protection and monitoring of unlicensed activity will remain central themes.
The Authority recently released its updated regulatory priorities for 2025, confirming that enforcement, supervision and consumer protection will remain at the core of its work. The MGA said it will continue to track unlicensed activity closely while supporting safer gambling initiatives across licensed operators.
Source: Gambling Insider
