Banks in Turkey Warn of Illegal Betting and Account Lending

Banks in Turkey have started issuing warnings to customers via mobile banking channels about the risks linked to illegal betting and letting third parties use bank accounts. In-app alerts and informational messages clearly remind users that bank accounts should be used only by the account holder. The notices underline that facilitating transactions tied to illegal betting, fraud, or similar crimes can lead to serious legal consequences, while also stressing that these messages are intended as general, preventive guidance rather than a personal accusation.

Why Are Banks in Turkey Issuing Illegal Betting Warnings?

A recent rise in transfers associated with illegal betting has pushed banks to tighten precautions. When a bank account is used by someone else—or “lent” for that purpose—it creates risks for the financial system and can place the account holder in a direct legal liability situation.

Banks say these warnings aim to curb activities such as illegal betting, fraud, and money laundering. The alerts are described as routine customer guidance issued under Turkey’s financial compliance framework, including procedures linked to MASAK (the Financial Crimes Investigation Board) and standard banking oversight practices—meaning they are not necessarily tied to a specific investigation into the recipient.

Warnings Are Delivered Through Mobile Banking Channels

Most of the messaging is delivered through mobile banking apps. In warning screens and information banners placed inside the apps, banks highlight key account-safety points such as:

• Accounts should be used only by the legal owner of the account.

• Allowing someone else to use your account may unintentionally make you part of a criminal transaction chain.

• Sharing IBAN or account details under the pretext of “holding it temporarily” can create significant risk.

In some cases, banks also extend these notices through SMS and other digital channels to increase awareness.

Do These Alerts Mean You Are Under Investigation?

One of the most searched questions is whether these notifications mean personal monitoring. Banks emphasize that these communications do not automatically indicate an individual review or investigation.

Officials note that such alerts can be sent broadly to many or all customers, even without any specific suspicious transaction being flagged. In other words, receiving an informational message alone is not a reason to panic—though customers are advised to stay careful about account security and who has access to their banking details.

Penalties and Risks of Letting Someone Else Use Your Bank Account

Letting third parties use your bank account—especially in an illegal betting context—can expose you to serious risk. Under Turkey’s legal framework, facilitating or acting as an intermediary for illegal betting-related payments can trigger significant consequences.

If suspicious activity is detected, the process can include:

• Block or Restriction: Banks may temporarily restrict access to an account or place a hold on certain transactions.

• Request for Explanation: During a review, the account holder may be asked to provide a written or verbal explanation for incoming/outgoing transfers.

• Referral to Authorities: If transactions are assessed as potentially criminal, the matter may be reported to prosecutors and relevant institutions.

Experts warn that saying “I didn’t know” may not always be enough if an account shows patterns consistent with third-party use. If authorities determine that an account was used to facilitate illegal betting-related transactions, outcomes can include administrative fines, additional banking measures, and the launch of an official investigation. For that reason, customers are strongly advised not to share IBAN or account details with others, and not to conduct transfers on behalf of third parties—even if it is presented as a temporary favor.