Hungary is facing a new surge of unlicensed online betting platforms that are aggressively targeting Hungarian players. Despite strict regulations and recent enforcement by the SZTFH, a number of illegal operators continue to appear, creating serious risks for consumers and undermining the legal gambling market.
What is happening
A growing number of betting websites without a valid Hungarian licence are promoting themselves to local users. These sites often advertise fake bonuses, promise unrealistic winnings, and make claims that cannot be verified. Authorities have already blocked hundreds of illegal domains, yet new ones continue to emerge under different names.
The biggest offenders
Three websites have recently drawn attention for repeatedly promoting unlicensed betting operators to Hungarian players:
All three are operating illegally, misleading players, and promoting platforms that lack Hungarian licences. Reports from players indicate that these sites often publish fake information about bonuses and promotions, and when users face problems such as missing payouts or blocked accounts, the websites are completely unresponsive.
They do not offer any real customer support, refuse to assist players with disputes, and redirect users to unsafe, unregulated operators that can vanish overnight. In short, these websites are dangerous, deceptive, and not to be trusted.
Why the risk is so high
Unlicensed operators avoid all of Hungary’s legal requirements for gambling platforms. This means:
- No player protection rules apply.
- No legal guarantee that winnings will be paid.
- No data security or responsible gambling measures.
- No access to Hungarian authorities in case of fraud or dispute.
Once you deposit money on these sites, it can disappear instantly without any recourse. Players have already reported losing significant sums through these illegal channels.
How the authorities are responding
The Hungarian regulator has stepped up efforts to block illegal sites and cut off their payment options. Payment providers and banks have been instructed to stop processing transactions linked to unlicensed gambling operators. However, the process takes time, and many illegal sites constantly switch domains to evade detection.
What players should do
Players must stay vigilant and avoid any site that is not officially licensed in Hungary. Before creating an account or depositing money, always verify whether the platform appears on the SZTFH’s official list of authorised operators.
Here are some essential safety tips:
- Never trust unverified promotions or “exclusive bonuses.”
- Avoid websites that refuse to show their licence number or registration address.
- Be extremely cautious if a website redirects you to a foreign betting site or asks for crypto deposits.
- Always check for transparent contact information and proper customer support.
Final warning
The rise of unlicensed betting platforms is a serious threat to Hungarian consumers. Websites like sportfogadas.org, hetmeteres.com, and sportfogadasok.net have proven to be high-risk and dishonest. They exploit Hungarian players, publish false promotional content, and fail to protect their users when issues arise.
Players are strongly advised to stay away from these domains entirely. Only use verified, Hungarian-licensed operators to ensure your money, data, and safety are protected. Being very, very, very careful is not just advice — it’s essential.
Hungary is expected to intensify its fight against illegal sports betting in the coming years. Authorities are likely to expand website blocking measures, making it harder for unlicensed operators to access Hungarian players. Financial restrictions may also tighten, with banks and payment providers required to block transactions linked to unauthorized betting platforms. The government could introduce higher fines and stricter enforcement against affiliates promoting illegal operators. At the same time, regulators may strengthen cooperation with international bodies to monitor cross-border gambling activity. Overall, the regulatory direction suggests a more aggressive enforcement environment aimed at protecting state revenue and licensed operators.
