Greek police have dismantled one of the country’s largest illegal gambling networks — a highly organized operation that ran at least 37 unauthorized gaming venues, most located in Athens. As part of a large-scale law enforcement operation, 36 individuals were arrested. Another 100 people are named in the case file.
Years of Illegal Operations and Massive Profits
According to the Hellenic Police (ELAS), the network generated over €16 million in illicit profits since its inception in 2018. The criminal organization operated like a ‘federation’, with clearly defined roles among its members, all united by a common goal: illegal financial gain.
Deceptive Tactics and Technical Manipulation
The group systematically defrauded players using rigged software on slot machines — commonly known as ‘fruit machines’ — and on illegal online casino platforms. Their methods included:
- Installing unauthorized software on computers and gaming machines;
- Using remote access tools to control machines from afar;
- Altering system settings without leaving digital traces;
- Importing uncertified Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) designed to mimic legal casino equipment;
- Setting up an illegal land-based gambling network, bypassing national licensing requirements;
- Installing surveillance cameras inside and outside venues to record citizens without consent.
Structured Roles Across the Network
At the top were platform managers responsible for overseeing at least 12 unlicensed online gambling platforms, importing and installing uncertified VLTs, managing access permissions for affiliated venues, and collecting commissions based on each collaborator’s level of access.
This leadership tier coordinated a broad network of collaborators — including technicians, cash collectors, and marketing agents — organized into semi-autonomous or hierarchically linked teams.
Technicians handled the installation of illegal software, configured systems via specialized programs and portable storage devices, and used remote-access applications to fully control gaming machines.
‘Hidden’ venue operators managed day-to-day operations, appointed nominal owners to avoid detection, hired staff to run games, and recruited players through intermediaries.
Game operators themselves oversaw machine functionality, processed player payouts, and directly manipulated game outcomes.
Ongoing Deception of Players
Investigators found that members routinely tampered with game results — adjusting payout percentages and otherwise rigging machines to ensure losses for players and guaranteed profits for the organization.