The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the regulatory body overseeing gambling activities in the Netherlands, has intensified its efforts to combat illegal online gambling operations targeting Dutch players. This crackdown includes recent actions against hosting providers facilitating unauthorized gambling websites and affiliates promoting illicit online casinos.
Key Enforcement Actions
The KSA issued a binding instruction to DigitalOcean, instructing it to terminate services to two illegal affiliate websites—casinozonderregistratie.net and nieuw-casinos.net. These sites were found guilty of illegally promoting online casino games to Dutch players, directing them towards unlicensed gambling platforms. DigitalOcean has been given a deadline of four weeks to comply with the directive, under threat of penalties if unsuccessful.
Scope of Violations
The KSA’s intervention is part of a broader initiative targeting unlawful gambling promotions. An investigation earlier this year identified 14 out of 33 websites for violations related to illegal gambling activities. This crackdown aligns with the KSA’s 2024 agenda, prioritizing actions against rogue affiliates in the gaming sector.
Regulatory Objectives
Beyond addressing illegal affiliates, the KSA aims to protect players from unlicensed operators operating outside legal boundaries. Recent punitive measures, such as the substantial fine levied against Gammix Limited in March 2024 (€19.7 million), highlight the authority’s zero-tolerance approach towards such infractions.
Insights into the Gaming Market
In addition to enforcement actions, the KSA regularly assesses market trends and safety standards in the Dutch gaming sector. Noteworthy findings include a significant 85% decline in reported match-fixing incidents, attributed partly to awareness issues. However, concerns remain regarding underreporting. Moreover, the Dutch iGaming market saw robust growth in 2023, with gross gaming revenue surging by 28% to €1.39 billion.
The KSA’s proactive measures underline its commitment to ensuring a safe and regulated online gaming environment in the Netherlands, emphasizing player protection and adherence to legal frameworks.