The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has issued a stern warning regarding two online gambling platforms—lavbet321.com and kasinoseta.com—which are falsely claiming to be licensed by the MGA. The regulator has clarified that these sites are not authorized to offer gaming services in Malta and that any assertions suggesting they are linked to the MGA are completely false and misleading.

MGA Highlights Growing Risk from Unlicensed Gambling Sites

The announcement from the MGA is part of its ongoing efforts to combat the rising issue of unlicensed operators targeting both local and international players. According to the MGA, these unauthorized platforms pose significant risks to consumers because they do not adhere to the strict regulatory standards that ensure player safety, fair gaming, and responsible gambling practices. The warning stresses that such unregulated sites lack the necessary legal protections, putting players at a higher risk of fraud and financial loss.

The MGA reminded the public that engaging with unlicensed operators could result in financial exposure as these platforms operate outside the jurisdiction of Maltese law. Players relying on these sites cannot benefit from the consumer protection mechanisms and standards that regulated operators are required to uphold.

In light of these misleading claims, the MGA emphasized the importance of verifying the legitimacy of any online gambling platform before using its services. The Authority provides a publicly accessible register of licensed operators, allowing consumers to easily check whether a website is authorized to offer gambling services under Maltese law. This register is a critical resource for ensuring that players engage only with licensed operators that meet the stringent regulatory standards designed to protect them.

As part of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding consumers, the MGA continues to urge players to be cautious and to confirm the licensing status of any platform they consider using. This effort is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the online gaming sector and minimizing the influence of unregulated entities.

MGA’s New Self-Assessment Tool for Responsible Gambling

In addition to its warning about unlicensed sites, the MGA recently introduced a newself-assessment tool designed to help individuals evaluate their gambling habits. Launched in October 2025, the tool aims to support players in identifying early signs of harmful gambling behavior and directs them to appropriate support services when necessary.

Developed in collaboration with several organizations, including Caritas Malta, Agenzija Sedqa, the OASI Foundation, and the Responsible Gaming Foundation, this tool complements the MGA’s broader efforts to encourage responsible gambling. The tool allows users to assess their behavior and receive personalized guidance, helping to prevent the negative consequences of gambling addiction.

Looking ahead, the MGA has outlined its regulatory priorities for 2025, which continue to focus on the protection of players, enhanced supervision, and the monitoring of unlicensed activities within the sector. The MGA reiterated its commitment to addressing the rise in unlicensed online gaming platforms and ensuring that licensed operators adhere to the highest standards of consumer protection and responsible gambling.