Syria restricts access to online gambling, betting websites

The local government in Syria is taking decisive action against online gambling and betting websites that target users in the country. On Sunday, the country's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology confirmed it has taken action to protect Syrians from gambling by suspending access to betting and gaming websites.

Gambling, regardless of whether at brick-and-mortar casinos, sports betting or iGaming, is prohibited under Syria's laws. The country banned gambling activities back in the 1970s, mainly for religious reasons, as well as due to other factors. Currently, the only type of gambling-related activity that is permitted in Syria is a state-run lottery. According to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the action against gambling and betting websites follows complaints that were received. Per the official announcement, the Ministry has taken the necessary measures to curb access to a number of gambling and betting sites targeting citizens in Syria. Under the effort, the Syrian Ministry has officially requested social media platforms to take proactive measures and stop ads by gambling companies from targeting users in Syria. This precautionary measure comes when the committee formed by the ministry ends its work to verify the activity of these sites, considering the violation of gambling and betting activities of the existing legal provisions, and the arbitrariness, change, and financial and social risks to individuals and families entail, the Ministry's announcement further explains. The government watchdog added that it will continue to monitor complaints and potential violations of Syria's gambling laws. In addition to scrutiny of the online vertical, the Ministry vowed to take necessary steps to address breaches of the country's legal framework, while promoting a safe and reliable digital environment, and protecting the community from illegal activities. The Ministry did not name specific online gambling brands or betting websites affected by the ban.