Online bingo is strictly illegal in Libya under multiple pieces of legislation that comprehensively ban all forms of gambling activities (1). The Libyan Penal Code prohibits gambling under Articles 492-495, with penalties ranging from fines of LYD10 to LYD50 and imprisonment for one to six months for those engaged in gambling (1). More recently, Law No. 5 of 2022 on Cybercrimes explicitly criminalized online gambling, making it one of the most severely penalized offenses in Libya's digital legislation framework.
Under Article 31 of Libya's 2022 Cybercrime Law, anyone who owns, operates, or manages online gambling businesses faces imprisonment for a minimum of two years and substantial fines between LYD10,000 and LYD20,000 (2). The law treats online bingo platforms and all internet-based gambling activities as serious cybercrimes, with operators facing harsher penalties than traditional land-based gambling participants (1). The National Authority for Information Security and Safety, established by Cabinet Resolution No. 28 of 2013, enforces these regulations and works to block access to online gambling websites.
"Anyone who owns or operates a gambling business or offers, facilitates, encourages, or promotes the establishment of a gambling business on the international information network or other electronic means shall be punished with imprisonment for at least two years and a fine of no less than 10,000 Libyan Dinars and not more than 20,000 Libyan Dinars."
Libya's prohibition on online bingo reflects both Islamic legal principles and the country's commitment to protecting its citizens from gambling harms (1). There is no licensing framework or regulatory pathway for online gambling operators, as all forms of gambling are considered criminal offenses rather than regulated activities (2). Libyan residents attempting to access international online bingo platforms do so at significant legal risk, as accessing such services constitutes criminal activity subject to imprisonment penalties under the 2022 Cybercrime Law.
Source:
https://cms.law/en/int/expert-guides/cms-expert-guide-to-gambling-laws-in-africa/libya
https://lawsociety.ly/en/legislation/law-no-5-of-2022-regarding-combating-cybercrimes/
Last updated: 01-11-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
