Filenews 18 November 2025
The Gaming and Casino Supervision Authority (APEK) informs the public that it has recently detected increased activity from illegal websites and platforms, as well as misleading advertisements promoting online casino services in the Republic of Cyprus.
Some of these advertisements are organized scams, as they falsely refer to the licensed casino of the Republic of Cyprus, in order to mislead citizens and extract money or personal data.
APEK reminds the public that:
- Cypriot casinos operate exclusively land-based
- No form of online casino is allowed in the Republic of Cyprus
- Therefore, any website or platform offering "online casino from Cyprus" or claiming to be "the official Cyprus casino" is illegal
Participating in illegal online casinos involves significant risks, including:
- Lack of Profit and Deposit Protection: There is no guarantee that the money or winnings will be returned.
- Personal Data Risks: Increased potential for sensitive information to be stolen, misused, or leaked.
- Insecurity in Financial Transactions: Risk of fraud, unauthorized fees, and interception of payment information.
- Absence of Responsible Gaming Measures: There are no limits, self-exclusion or safeguards.
- Minor access: Incomplete identification procedures allow minors to be exposed to gambling.
- Inability to file complaints: There are no reliable dispute resolution mechanisms.
APEK reminds that the only licensed casino in the Republic of Cyprus is the Integrated Casino Resort (ICR) Cyprus, as well as its satellite facilities in Nicosia, Famagusta and Paphos, which operate exclusively as land-based casinos.
The Authority is in constant cooperation with the competent authorities to deal with illegal online activities and invites the public to report suspicious cases to APEK or the Cybercrime Sub-Directorate of the Cyprus Police.
