Italy is preparing to overhaul its digital protection, with the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) unveiling plans to establish a nationwide «cybersecurity shield» as part of the upcoming Budget Law. The initiative is designed to strengthen oversight and ensure the safety of the country’s fast-expanding online gambling sector.
Casino Market's experts will share valuable insights about new compliance rules, protective software, and the Italian government's plans to ensure transparent operations for legitimate businesses.
Measures to Prevent Illegal Access
The proposal will require any company providing internet connections to install special blocking software.
This rule will apply to:
- desktop computers in public areas and offices;
- kiosks and terminals used by visitors;
- tablets or other portable browsing devices.
Developed jointly by ADM (Italy’s Customs and Monopolies Agency) and the state tech hub SOGEI, the program will automatically stop access to unapproved websites. The tool will be freely downloadable by both authorities and certified operators, creating a nationwide safety network against illegal domains.
ADM and Law Enforcement Coordination
ADM will lead this multilateral project and develop the implementing regulations. The agency will also collaborate with the Guardia di Finanza to conduct inspections and ensure compliance.
The penalties for violations will include:
- administrative fines;
- increased charges for repeated breaches;
- possible criminal prosecution for devices configured to direct users to prohibited sites.
This initiative follows the Constitutional Court's decision to annul the Balduzzi Decree’s complete ban on gaming machines in public places, deeming it overly restrictive for legitimate businesses. However, ADM made clear that closed systems designed purely for gambling use will still not be allowed.
Emphasis on Economic Value
The MEF highlighted the importance of the reform, noting that the iGaming sector generates approximately €21 billion annually, with nearly €8 billion in tax revenue going to the state. The updated licensing process, which requires €7 million per permit, has already granted 46 approvals.
Officials also revealed that the digital segment now contributes nearly €1 billion a year, making stronger online protection essential.
The revised compliance code will obligate licence holders to:
- promote spending limits and self-control tools;
- display warnings for high-risk activities;
- report transparent data to regulators.
Ongoing Threat from the Grey Market
Despite reforms, exposure to illicit operations remains significant. The European Gaming and Betting Association estimated losses of around €1 billion in 2023 due to offshore sites targeting Italian punters.
Such platforms gained popularity after the Dignity Decree imposed a blanket ban on advertising and sponsorship, prompting users to turn to unlicensed casinos abroad that offered fast deposits and minimal checks.
The Meloni administration intends to replace this limitation with a modern communication system. The new proposal, drawn up under the influence of Serie A, Italian broadcasters, and the Ministry of Sports, is expected to be submitted to parliament later this year.
Delays in Reform for Physical Casinos
Reorganisation of land-based venues has been postponed until August 2026. Officials cited ongoing talks with local governments and the completion of the Lotto Italia tender, awarded to Brightstar, Allwyn, and Novomatic, as the main reasons for the delay.
Key goals of this phase include:
- compensation rules for local authorities hosting casinos;
- updated licensing conditions for franchise networks;
- revised taxation for brick-and-mortar establishments.
Prospects for 2026
While 2025 will centre on settling regulatory and fiscal issues, the following year is expected to focus on updating systems and ensuring compliance. Both online and physical sectors will undergo technical adjustments to meet the state’s modernised standards.
Italy’s new policy direction aims to balance several goals:
- secure national revenue;
- improve transparency and safety;
- restore advertising opportunities for sports and media.
The real challenge will be whether the «cybersecurity shield» can successfully block unauthorised activities while supporting a stable, responsible and innovative iGaming sector.
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