Gambling advertising is permitted only for licensed offers and within the limits of the licence under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV).
Legal framework
- § 5 GlüStV: advertising only for permitted gambling; not aimed at minors; not misleading about chances of winning; mandatory notices on addiction and age limits
- Time restrictions for online casino, poker and virtual slot advertising on TV and the internet, and limits for live-betting advertising during sports broadcasts
- Ban on advertising unlicensed gambling
Case law
- BGH, 22 July 2021, I ZR 194/20 – TV advertising for a tolerated offer can indirectly promote illegal gambling under a near-identical domain; broadcasters must check obvious violations after notice
Case examples
Bonus without conditions
A bookmaker advertises a “EUR 100 welcome bonus” without stating wagering requirements. This is misleading.
Influencer stream
A streamer plays online slots for a casino during the day. Time restrictions and labelling rules apply.
