Italy Targets Alleged Slot Machine Fraud Network in Cosenza

Italian authorities have taken precautionary measures against 15 people in Cosenza over an alleged scheme involving manipulated slot machines and suspected corruption.

The operation involved the Carabinieri of the Cosenza Provincial Command and officials from the Gaming Directorate of the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli, or ADM.

Authorities seized 145 gaming machines and around €80,000 in cash during inspections across the province.

Two suspects were placed under house arrest, six became subject to non-custodial restrictions and seven were banned from operating or participating in gambling activities for one year.

The case remains in the preliminary investigation stage, and none of the accused has been convicted.

Hidden Boards Allegedly Diverted Wagers

Investigators believe the machines were modified to record wagers outside Italy’s official monitoring system.

The devices allegedly contained unauthorized electronic boards installed alongside the approved ADM-connected hardware. Authorities suspect the setup allowed betting activity to bypass the state register and avoid the Prelievo Erariale Unico tax applied to slot-machine wagers.

The investigation began after ADM controls identified “striking anomalies” in telematic data from several machines.

Further inspections led investigators to examine smartphones, tablets, computers and digital storage devices. Forensic analysis allegedly revealed methods used to divert play to illicit cloned boards.

The suspected system included modified cabling, remote wireless controls, timers and monitor switches. These could allegedly redirect gameplay so wagers were collected “off the books”.

ADM Official Faces Corruption Allegations

Prosecutors are also examining the conduct of a local ADM employee.

The official allegedly received payments in exchange for confidential information about planned inspections, including dates and locations.

Investigators believe this allowed operators to hide illegal components before inspections took place.

The employee is also accused of using access to an ADM warehouse to obtain sealed boxes containing confiscated electronic boards. Those components were allegedly handed to members of the group for reuse after modification.

Potential offences under investigation include participation in a criminal organization, corruption, disclosure and use of official secrets and fraud against the state.

Authorities are also examining suspected tax evasion and aiding and abetting.

Case Follows Earlier Asset Seizure

The latest action is linked to a wider investigation that had already resulted in enforcement measures.

In November 2025, authorities seized more than €12 million in cash and assets in connection with the case.

The investigation is taking place while Italy continues to revise its gambling regulatory framework. A new system for online betting and casino operations launched in November 2025, while rules covering retail gaming remain unsettled.

Separate enforcement activity has also targeted alleged wrongdoing in other parts of the gambling industry. In another recent case, authorities seized more than €25 million in assets while investigating former employees accused of exploiting privileged access connected to Gratta e Vinci scratchcards.

All allegations remain subject to further investigation and court proceedings. As reported by Italien.news, the accused are presumed innocent unless found guilty.