MGA H1 2025 report: 23 penalties issued, €139K in fines, 1,720 player cases resolved, and major crackdown on unlicensed operators and fraud.
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) regulator has released its mid-year performance report, revealing a significant increase in enforcement actions alongside strengthened player protection measures during the first half of 2025.
MGA Steps Up Regulatory Oversight Amid Industry Growth
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) resolved over 1,700 player assistance requests while issuing dozens of penalties and warnings to operators between January and June 2025.
On top of this, the regulatory authority also identified 34 fraudulent websites falsely claiming MGA licensing, demonstrating its commitment to protecting players from unlicensed operators.
Enforcement Actions on the Rise
The MGA took decisive action against non-compliant operators during the reporting period.
23 cease-and-desist letters were issues, 15 warnings, and the MGA imposed 23 administrative penalties totaling €139,360. One operator had their licence cancelled entirely.
These numbers represent a proactive approach to maintaining industry standards. For players, this means the MGA is actively removing problem operators from the market. However, it also signals a more challenging regulatory environment that could impact operator behavior and service quality.
Source: All the facts and figures in this news report can be verified via the official Interim Performance Report for January to June 2025 – you can either download the entire report into a PDF or view it using your web browser.
Player Protection Measures Show Results
The following table highlights key regulatory activities from the first half of 2025:
| Category | Number of Actions |
|---|---|
| Player Assistance Requests Resolved | 1,720 |
| Player Funds Reports Reviewed | 891 |
| Fraudulent URLs Identified | 34 |
| Compliance Audits Completed | 7 |
| Thematic Reviews Conducted | 87 |
| Suspicious Betting Reports Received | 149 |
The authority processed nearly 900 player fund reports and conducted nine data extractions to safeguard player money.
One of the highlights of the regulator’s enforcement is ensuring operators maintain proper segregation of player funds, which directly affects your ability to withdraw winnings or recover your balance if an operator becomes bankrupt.
On top of this, a new rule introduced in 2025 requires all operators to show positive equity, with no gambling on debt.
You can read more on how the MGA protects plater funds here.
Match-Fixing and Sports Betting Integrity
Sports bettors should take note of the MGA’s anti-match-fixing efforts. The regulator received 149 suspicious betting reports from licensees and shared 88 alerts across the industry. They participated in 30 investigations globally, working with sports governing bodies and other regulators to maintain betting integrity.
New Licenses and Application Rejections
The MGA issued eight new gaming licences and five renewals during the period. However, two applications were rejected for providing false or misleading information, and four applicants failed fit and proper assessments. The Supervisory Council reviewed 16 licence applications in total. This selective approach means players may see fewer new casino brands entering the market, but those that do gain approval have undergone rigorous vetting.
International Cooperation Expands
The regulator collaborated with 29 international requests and participated in 41 data exchanges with other jurisdictions. This cross-border cooperation helps track problem operators and share intelligence about potential risks to players.
Casinoplusbonus Opinion
The MGA’s enforcement statistics paint a picture of active regulation that benefits players by enhancing protection and preventing fraud. The 1,720 resolved player assistance requests demonstrate that the regulator is accessible and responsive when problems arise. However, the increased penalties and stricter oversight may pose challenges for operators, potentially leading to reduced bonuses, more rigorous terms, or some brands exiting the market. From a player’s standpoint, these trade-offs are for those who prefer security over convenience.
A well-regulated environment with fewer operators who maintain high standards ultimately protects your deposits and ensures fair gaming practices.
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