Poland’s competition watchdog has launched an investigation into the country’s biggest bookmakers, examining whether their websites, apps and contract terms could be putting consumers at an unfair disadvantage.
The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK), led by President Tomasz Chróstny, is looking at how betting platforms communicate with customers and whether their design encourages users to gamble more frequently or makes it unnecessarily difficult to stop.
The investigation covers several of Poland’s largest operators, including STS, Fortuna, Superbet, Bukmacherska, E-toto, LV Bet and Totalbet.
Regulator targets gambling “dark patterns”
A key part of the investigation is the use of so-called dark patterns — interface designs or communication techniques that can influence users towards decisions they might not otherwise make.
UOKiK is examining bookmaker websites and mobile apps, with an AI-based tool being used to help identify potentially manipulative practices.
One particular concern is the difference between closing an account and bringing it back into operation. While account suspension or closure can require several steps, reactivation may be considerably easier, potentially making it harder for consumers to take a meaningful break from betting.
Chróstny said that operators have responsibilities that go beyond simply meeting the letter of gambling law, particularly in a sector where financial risks and gambling addiction are involved.
Betting terms also face scrutiny
The regulator is separately challenging contract clauses used by several bookmakers.
UOKiK is examining provisions that could give operators broad discretion to void bets, restrict accounts or determine payouts without providing sufficiently clear conditions.
The watchdog argues that customers should be able to understand in advance when such measures can be applied and what consequences they may face.
The issue could prove costly for some operators. Companies including STS, Fortuna, Superbet, Bukmacherska and E-toto could face fines of up to 10% of annual turnover if UOKiK finds that they have used prohibited unfair contract terms.
A closer look at how betting platforms treat players
The investigation puts consumer experience at the centre of Poland’s latest regulatory scrutiny.
Rather than focusing only on whether bookmakers hold the required licences or comply with gambling rules, UOKiK is examining the details of how players interact with betting services — from interface design and account management to promotional messaging and contractual conditions.
For operators, the case could set an important benchmark for how betting platforms are expected to balance commercial objectives with consumer protection.
The investigation is ongoing, and the regulator has yet to announce final findings or penalties. But its focus on both digital design and contractual fairness signals that compliance in Poland’s betting market is increasingly extending beyond traditional gambling regulation.