In an escalating campaign against illegal gambling, Turkish authorities have turned their attention to a growing number of social media influencers and celebrities accused of promoting unlicensed betting platforms. The crackdown marks a new phase in Turkey’s efforts to curb the online gambling industry, which continues to operate in defiance of national laws.
Target: Influencers and Celebrity Endorsements
Dozens of well-known figures — including reality TV personalities, pop singers, and social media influencers — have come under investigation for sharing or endorsing gambling-related content on platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Authorities allege that many of these posts include direct or indirect promotions of illegal gambling websites that target Turkish users.
Among the most high-profile names in the investigation are Mehmet Ali Erbil, a veteran TV show host and comedian in Turkey, and Serdar Ortaç, one of the country’s most famous pop singers. Both figures have massive followings and are alleged to have publicly endorsed illegal betting platforms via social media and other promotional appearances.
Authorities believe their endorsements may have significantly contributed to the visibility and credibility of offshore betting sites operating without a Turkish license.
Legal Consequences and Wider Implications
Promoting or facilitating access to unlicensed gambling platforms is a criminal offense in Turkey, even if the promotion occurs on social media or via paid partnerships abroad. Authorities view these celebrity endorsements as part of a broader money laundering and illegal promotion network.
Recent operations include arrests, digital evidence seizures, and interrogations focused on whether celebrities knowingly engaged in paid partnerships with illegal operators. Some may face charges including “advertising illegal gambling” and “aiding in unauthorized betting” both of which carry financial penalties and potential prison sentences.
Influencer Marketing Meets Law Enforcement
This crackdown is part of a growing trend globally, where regulators are scrutinizing the role influencers play in promoting products and services that fall into legal grey areas — from crypto to betting. In Turkey’s case, the emphasis is not just on consumer protection but also on cutting off financial networks linked to illegal operators.
Authorities have called on influencers to “act responsibly” and ensure that their content does not violate local laws. A statement from the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) indicated that surveillance efforts will increase, and further prosecutions are expected.
Looking Ahead
Turkey’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal gambling is now expanding beyond site operators and payment processors — to the celebrities who lend these operations legitimacy. For influencers with regional clout, this serves as a stark reminder: promoting illegal gambling may come with legal consequences, even for the rich and famous.