Despite being banned in many other countries, the illegal online betting app 1xBet has become a serious problem in Algeria.
While it is ruining thousands of young and vulnerable people, the government has been slow to react, allowing a social and economic crisis to take hold.
For over a year, 1xBet has been widely used in Algeria, promising quick riches to both teenagers and adults. However, this has led to a silent catastrophe, with families being ruined, young people falling into debt, and even cases of theft to support betting habits.
The app operates through a parallel system that bypasses all official tax and banking regulations. Users can make deposits and withdrawals in Algerian dinars through local intermediaries, such as tobacconists and internet cafes, who earn a 10% commission. This system not only fuels addiction but also facilitates money laundering. As one father lamented, “Anyone can play, including children. There are no restrictions or regulations.”
Countless stories have emerged of small business owners being ruined and young people being forced to sell their belongings or turn to crime to pay off their debts.
The lack of effective regulation and official action in Algeria stands in stark contrast to other countries like Egypt, where 1xBet was quickly banned. This lax approach has allowed the illegal market to flourish, leading to a loss of tax revenue and an increased risk of crime.
The government’s inaction raises questions about whether it is due to negligence or political calculation. In a country already struggling with youth unemployment and social insecurity, the uncontrolled spread of online gambling is adding another destabilizing factor. Without swift and decisive action, Algeria risks allowing this social problem to further erode the national fabric.
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