01.11.2025 09:26
Gambling addiction has become an increasingly prevalent social issue in Turkey in recent years. In this context, a Presidential Decree regarding the Action Plan for Combating Illegal Betting, Games of Chance, and Gambling in the Virtual Environment (2025-2026) was published in the Official Gazette, signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Accordingly, the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) will coordinate the implementation and monitoring activities of the action plan.
With the signature of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the Presidential Circular regarding the 'Action Plan for Combating Illegal Betting, Games of Chance, and Gambling in the Virtual Environment (2025-2026)' has been published in the Official Gazette.
"DISRUPTING FAMILY INTEGRITY"
In the circular, it was emphasized that illegal betting, games of chance, and gambling activities disrupt family integrity, weaken social relationships, and pose a serious threat to public order by increasing the informal economy.
CAPACITY FOR DETECTION, INTERVENTION, AND MONITORING WILL BE STRENGTHENED
The circular pointed out that with the development of the virtual world and the widespread use of financial technologies, these activities have gained a cross-border nature; it was stated that the capacity for detection, intervention, and monitoring in the fight against these activities needs to be strengthened.
WORK WILL BE CARRIED OUT UNDER THE COORDINATION OF MASAK
In this context, in order to detect and prevent illegal betting and gambling activities at all stages in virtual environments, financial systems, advertising and promotion channels, and international dimensions, the 'Action Plan for Combating Illegal Betting, Games of Chance, and Gambling in the Virtual Environment (2025-2026)' has been prepared with the participation of public institutions and civil society organizations under the coordination of the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK).
It was requested that the implementation of the Action Plan and monitoring activities be coordinated by MASAK, and that public institutions and organizations fulfill their duties and responsibilities with sensitivity. The Presidency instructed that all institutions should meticulously and primarily provide all kinds of support and assistance needed during the effective implementation process of the action plan.
RECORD INCREASE IN TURKEY
In the last three years, the number of applications related to gambling addiction in Turkey has increased by 2.5 times. Gambling has become a popular activity among young people. Especially activities such as sports betting, dice games, scratch cards, and card games are becoming widespread and problematic. The most significant factor in the increase is seen as online gambling.