Payment Firms Targeted in Illegal Gambling Crackdown

The European Gambling and Betting Association (EGBA) has ramped up efforts to tackle illegal online casinos by lodging a complaint against Walletto, a payment processing firm, with the Lithuanian banking regulator. The complaint, submitted on 10 July 2026, calls on the regulator to investigate Walletto for allegedly facilitating transactions to unlicensed gambling operators.

Walletto, a less prominent player in the payment processing landscape, is now under scrutiny as regulators and trade bodies seek to tighten controls on unlicensed online gambling. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has previously implemented stringent measures to combat such practices, including working with financial institutions to block payments to unlicensed operators. As of [14 July 2026], the UK gambling market remains tightly regulated, with major players like Bet365, William Hill, and Ladbrokes adhering to strict compliance standards.

"A spokesperson for the EGBA confirmed in a statement on 10 July: 'We believe Walletto's actions undermine the regulated market and pose a risk to consumers by enabling access to unlicensed gambling services.'"

What this means for Kiwi players

For Kiwi players, this development serves as a vital reminder of the importance of choosing licensed operators. While the EGBA's focus is on Walletto and the Lithuanian market, it highlights a broader issue of unlicensed casinos gaining access to financial systems. If you've ever used POLi for transactions at a licensed Kiwi casino, you understand the benefits of a regulated environment. Sticking with trusted operators ensures your payouts are secure and timely.

The broader context of payment firm investigations

The EGBA's action against Walletto is part of a larger global trend, where regulatory bodies are increasingly scrutinising payment firms involved in the gambling sector. While a £273,000 fine may seem significant, past penalties from the UKGC have reached even higher amounts, demonstrating a strong commitment to cleaning up the market. However, these investigations can be time-consuming, and outcomes may vary considerably. Historically, such actions have led to stricter regulations on financial transactions within the gambling industry.

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