In 2006 the Law on Prevention of Laundering Proceeds of Crime Act came into force. This was partly created due to a number of high profile scandals involving owners of casinos. Gambling sites were specifically targeted in the act. Whilst this had no direct effect on players it did mean that operators and dealers were heavily scrutinized by the Turkish authorities.
When Law No. 7258 was passed it set out how different forms of sports betting can become legal. The act essentially states that the Directorate of Youth and Sports issues permits to sports betting sites. This is done by exercising the rights of the Sport Toto Organization Chairmanship. If private entities want to offer gambling legally then they have to get permission from this organization.
The Misdemeanors Law is one of the most important acts for gambling site owners and players. Article 34 of it states that any type of non-state betting is forbidden. People who are found to be engaging in it can be banned. Furthermore their wins could be confiscated. This act makes no distinction between real world and online gambling. Supplying a place and opportunity to gamble is illegal. Anyone found doing this could be fined and/or imprisoned.
What does this all mean for players?
All of this legislation essentially makes it difficult for players to find a sports betting supplier. However, this does not necessarily mean that it is impossible. In some ways Turkish citizens are lucky. Having such robust and extensive laws in place will make it easier for players to know which gambling entities are legitimate. All they need to do is pick one that has been licensed by the relevant authority.
A lot of betting fans want to have as many options as possible. The problem is that they could end up choosing a disreputable provider. The Turkish laws may seem restrictive or even draconian. However, they were put in place to protect players as much as possible. For example, the operating hours of legal casinos are limited to 8 hours per day. This helps to prevent addiction amongst players.