Online gambling in Russia: laws and player risks

Russia’s authorised online betting market should not be confused with permission for online casino games. The Federal Tax Service explains a general prohibition on online gambling, with a defined exception for interactive bets through regulated bookmakers and totalisators. That exception does not establish a legal online slots or roulette market. The same authority describes examining casino, slots and poker websites for enforcement. Those website-control measures are not evidence of convictions of ordinary customers. Our limited review did not establish a verified case specifically convicting someone solely for private offshore casino play, and that finding does not establish immunity. Offshore casinos are an option marketed to Russian players. Risks include blocked access or payments, disputed withdrawals and difficulty pursuing an overseas operator. A foreign licence does not remove the local restrictions. We have not verified a lawful Russian online casino to recommend. If you consider an authorised betting product instead, check the official register and the precise scope of its permission rather than assuming all gambling products are covered.