The Dutch Gaming Authority, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has imposed a fine of €45,000 ($49,500) on Merkur Casino for breaching its obligations related to the Central Register of Exclusion of Games of Chance (Cruks). Cruks was established to assist individuals struggling with gambling addiction by allowing them to self-exclude from all arcades, casinos, and online games of chance in the Netherlands. The objective is to prevent those registered on Cruks from gaining access to gambling facilities. However, Merkur Casino failed to comply with this self-exclusion scheme, resulting in the issuance of the fine by the KSA.
The Purpose of Cruks and Its Importance:
Cruks serves as a valuable tool in the fight against problem gambling. It enables gambling providers licensed in the Netherlands to verify whether their players are listed on the Cruks system. This verification process ensures that individuals registered on Cruks are prevented from accessing gambling establishments, thereby safeguarding those with gambling problems from further harm. By denying entry to individuals on the self-exclusion list, Cruks aims to provide a responsible and secure gambling environment.
The Violation and its Consequences:
Merkur Casino’s breach of its obligations under the self-exclusion scheme resulted in the imposition of the fine. During a 13-day period from February 17, 2022, to March 2, 2022, an individual who had self-excluded from all gambling activities in the Netherlands managed to gain access to Merkur Casino in Almere on nine separate occasions. When the casino’s employees attempted to verify the person’s Cruks registration, they encountered an error message that prevented them from confirming the individual’s status. Despite this, the person was allowed entry into the casino multiple times. As a result of this violation, the KSA levied a fine of €45,000 on Merkur Casino.
The Importance of Compliance and Employee Responsibility:
The incident at Merkur Casino highlights the critical role that compliance and employee diligence play in ensuring the effectiveness of self-exclusion schemes. Employees are responsible for checking the Cruks system and denying entry to individuals who appear on the self-exclusion list. In this case, the casino’s employees failed to uphold their obligations, allowing the person on the Cruks register to access the premises multiple times. To maintain the integrity of self-exclusion programs and protect vulnerable individuals, it is crucial for gambling establishments to prioritize compliance and provide proper training to their employees.
Enforcement Measures and the KSA’s Role:
The KSA’s enforcement action against Merkur Casino sends a clear message about the importance of adhering to self-exclusion regulations. By imposing a substantial fine, the KSA aims to ensure that gambling operators take their responsibilities seriously and prioritize the well-being of their customers. The KSA plays a crucial role in regulating the gambling industry in the Netherlands, monitoring compliance, and taking appropriate action against violations. Through its enforcement efforts, the KSA seeks to create a safer gambling environment and protect individuals at risk of gambling-related harm.
The fine imposed on Merkur Casino for breaching the self-exclusion scheme highlights the significance of responsible gambling practices and the importance of compliance. The Cruks system serves as a vital tool in preventing individuals with gambling addiction from accessing gambling establishments. However, the failure of Merkur Casino’s employees to deny entry to a registered individual highlights the need for heightened diligence and training within the industry. By taking enforcement action, the KSA reinforces the obligation of gambling operators to prioritize customer protection and contribute to a safer gambling environment. Compliance with self-exclusion regulations is crucial in mitigating the risks associated with problem gambling and safeguarding vulnerable individuals.