The Ksa (Kansspelautoriteit), the Netherlands’ regulatory authority for gambling, has recently made decisive rulings against companies that engaged in advertising practices aimed at young adults. With a strong focus on protecting vulnerable demographics, particularly young adults, the Ksa is actively enforcing regulations to prevent gambling addiction and maintain the integrity of the industry.
JOI Gaming’s Advertising Breach:
The Ksa found that JOI Gaming had sent advertising messages for online games of chance on its website, www.jacks.nl, between December 8, 2021, and March 7, 2022. The authority deemed these advertisements to be targeted at the company’s young customer base, which directly violates regulations. The Ksa emphasizes that protecting young adults is a top priority due to their heightened risk of developing gambling addiction. It firmly enforces the ban on advertising directed at this demographic, as outlined in the law.
René Jansen, Chairman of the Ksa, expressed the authority’s unwavering stance on recruitment activities aimed at young adults. The Ksa believes that the legislature’s intentions are clear: no activities should target this vulnerable group. Licensed providers were explicitly reminded of the provisions regarding advertising and recruitment activities in December 2021, making JOI Gaming’s actions all the more serious and culpable.
Crackdown on Prohibited Bets during FIFA 2022 World Cup:
In November 2022, the Ksa issued warnings to three betting operators for offering prohibited bets on FIFA 2022 World Cup matches. One of the companies allowed bets on the number of yellow cards given by a referee during a match. Such bets are banned in the Netherlands due to their susceptibility to match-fixing. The Ksa’s intervention reflects its commitment to maintaining the integrity of sports betting and preventing any potential corruption.
Commendation for Adherence to Celebrity Advertisement Ban:
In contrast to its crackdown on JOI Gaming and the prohibited bets, the Ksa commended operators for complying with regulations that prohibit celebrities from featuring in gambling ads. The regulatory body conducted investigations into licensees’ marketing activities and recognized their adherence to the rule. By ensuring that celebrities are not involved in gambling promotions, operators contribute to responsible advertising practices and mitigate the potential influence of influential personalities on vulnerable individuals.
The Ksa’s recent actions against JOI Gaming’s advertising practices and its warnings to betting operators demonstrate its commitment to protecting vulnerable demographics and maintaining the integrity of the gambling industry in the Netherlands. By strictly enforcing regulations against advertising targeted at young adults and prohibiting bets that are sensitive to match-fixing, the Ksa safeguards the interests of players and upholds the principles of responsible gambling. The commendation for operators adhering to rules regarding celebrity advertisements reflects the industry’s collective effort to promote responsible practices and protect consumers from potential harm. Through its decisive actions and ongoing vigilance, the Ksa aims to create a safe and transparent gambling environment in the Netherlands.