Hungary Blocks Polymarket Over Illegal Gambling Concerns
The Hungarian gambling regulatory body has imposed restrictions on Polymarket, a cryptocurrency prediction market platform. The Szabályozott Tevékenységek Felügyeleti Hatósága (SZTFH) announced this decision due to concerns over illegal gambling.
Details of the Restriction
On January 16, 2026, the SZTFH issued a notice declaring the temporary inaccessibility of the “polymarket.com” domain and its associated subdomains. This action stems from allegations of prohibited gambling organization, referred to in Hungarian as “tiltott szerencsejáték szervezés.”
- Authority Involved: Szabályozott Tevékenységek Felügyeleti Hatósága (SZTFH)
- Date of Action: January 16, 2026
- Allegations: Illegal gambling organization
- Case Identified: Adventure One QSS Inc.
Hungarian users have reported that they can no longer access Polymarket from local IP addresses. Access attempts trigger a warning message citing the SZTFH decision, based on local legislation aimed at preventing illegal online gambling activities.
Broader European Context
This restriction is part of a growing trend in Europe, where regulators increasingly view crypto prediction markets as gambling. Although Polymarket promotes itself as a market driven by trading rather than traditional gambling odds, this distinction has not swayed Hungarian authorities.
Similar Actions in Other Countries
Portugal has also taken measures against Polymarket. Authorities there have ordered the winding down of operations due to restrictions on political betting and licensing requirements. However, reports indicate that the platform remains accessible in Portugal as enforcement of this order continues.
Implications for the Future
The situation reflects a broader tightening around prediction markets within Europe. Several jurisdictions are scrutinizing platforms like Polymarket, arguing that they operate too closely to gambling without appropriate licensing.
As Europe shifts its regulatory stance on crypto-based prediction markets, companies in this sector may face increasing hurdles. Hungary’s actions present a significant example of how national authorities navigate the complexities of online gambling regulations in an evolving digital landscape.
