The Spanish government is introducing new rules that will make online gambling sites display clear warnings about the dangers of gambling. The Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption, and the 2030 Agenda said the warnings, similar to those on cigarette packs, will appear on all betting sites, apps, and ads to raise awareness about gambling addiction.

Under Royal Decree 958/2020, gambling operators must show messages such as Total players losses are four times greater than their winnings or The probability of being a losing player is 75%. These simple warnings aim to help people understand the real risks of gambling and make safer choices.

Protecting citizens from Gambling Addiction

At the Safe Gaming event held at the Ministry’s headquarters, Minister Pablo Bustinduy explained that gambling addiction should be treated with the same seriousness as substance addiction. He said that the government’s goal is to ensure that people know the true risks before engaging in gambling.

“Gambling addiction can have effects that are just as harmful as smoking or drinking,” Bustinduy said. “We want everyone to have the information they need to make responsible decisions.”

The Ministry noted that these new warnings will replace the old Play responsibly message. Instead, the focus will now shift to evidence-based facts about gambling losses and addiction risks. This decision was made due to the findings from a recent report on behavioral and addictive disorders released by the Ministry of Health.

Tighter Control on Gambling Advertising

The government is also working on Customer Service Law, which is currently being discussed in the Congress of Deputies. This law includes stricter regulations on gambling advertisements, especially those that target young people.

Under the proposed rules, celebrities will no longer be allowed to appear in gambling ads, and welcome bonuses designed to attract new users will be banned. These changes aim to prevent vulnerable groups from being drawn into gambling by misleading promotions or celebrity influence.

Minister Bustinduy pointed out that some gambling companies earn large profits by taking advantage of those most at risk. “The reality is that today in our country there are economic operators who profit significantly by squeezing the most vulnerable,” he said.

A Step Toward Safer Gambling Practices

The new measures mark a significant shift in how Spain approaches gambling regulation. By introducing strong, factual warning messages and restricting advertising, the government hopes to reduce gambling-related harm across the country.

Officials believe that with more transparency and awareness, citizens will be better equipped to recognize the risks and avoid falling into addiction. In the words of Minister Bustinduy, the goal is simple: to make gambling safer and ensure that every player knows the real odds before they play.