The Dutch Gaming Authority (Kansspelautoriteit or Ksa) has intensified its efforts against illegal gambling practices, with a focus on removing harmful apps, ensuring compliance from licensed operators, addressing customer service concerns, and combating misleading promotions. Here’s a breakdown of their recent actions and initiatives:
Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Apps
The Ksa has enhanced its strategy to combat illegal gambling apps available in app stores, resulting in the removal of 20 apps since the start of 2025. These apps often mislead users by redirecting them to unlicensed gambling sites, sometimes using logos of legal providers to appear legitimate, and are frequently targeted at minors. The Ksa encourages consumers to report suspicious apps through platforms like Meld Vals Spel (Report Foul Play). Collaboration with app stores, public reporting, and industry vigilance continues to drive this initiative.
Addressing Customer Service Issues at Lucky 7 Casino
The Ksa recently investigated Noord Zuid Alliantie B.V., the operator of Lucky 7 Casino, due to inaccessible customer service and the use of English instead of the required Dutch for player support. Licensed operators are mandated to provide customer services in Dutch to ensure effective communication and addiction prevention. Following discussions with the Ksa, these issues have been resolved. Additionally, the operator faced concerns about enabling play after self-exclusion and encouraging deposits via pop-ups. These problems have been addressed, but the Ksa remains vigilant for any future violations.
Player Protection in Focus: 2024 Annual Report
The Ksa’s 2024 annual report highlights its commitment to player protection, addiction prevention, and combating illegal gambling. The report outlines key policy changes, challenges, and measures aimed at fostering a safer gambling market in 2025 and beyond. It emphasizes initiatives such as responsible gaming tools and regulatory measures against unlicensed operators. Stakeholders can access the full report for detailed insights.
Eliminating Illegal Gambling Promotions
An investigation into the promotion of illegal gambling services through online news outlets and magazines led the Ksa to contact 42 editorial offices. These publications were found to promote unlicensed operators, enticing players—especially vulnerable individuals—to gamble without CRUKS registration. Links to illegal providers were successfully removed after discussions, and all editorial offices received guidance to prevent future violations. The Ksa also advises players to use the Kansspelwijzer (Gambling Guide) for safer gambling practices.
Concerns Over Sports Betting Platform Analysis Master
The Ksa completed a review of the sports betting tips platform Analysis Master, concluding that no license violations occurred. However, concerns were raised about the platform’s appeal to young adults, a demographic vulnerable to gambling addiction. The platform’s association with promotional activities by role models, prohibited for gambling operators, was also flagged. The Ksa expects stricter regulation of such platforms moving forward and reminded licensees of their responsibility for third-party advertising compliance.
Combatting Illegal Poker Tournaments
In late 2024, the Ksa undertook several enforcement actions against illegal poker tournaments linked to criminal activity. These actions uncovered significant cash prizes and resulted in penalties, closures of establishments, and heightened vigilance. The Ksa reminded organizers that poker tournaments are only legal when conducted by Holland Casino or in private circles of acquaintances.
Training Compliance Among Licensees
Between November 2024 and January 2025, the Ksa audited KOA licensees’ compliance with addiction prevention training requirements. Over 99% of employees completed the necessary courses, but the Ksa noted that many delayed completing additional courses. Providers have been urged to ensure timely training, with a four-week deadline after employment for course completion. On a positive note, many operators offered training to staff outside core departments, indicating a broad commitment to responsible gaming.
Anti-Money Laundering Compliance
Starting this month, the Ksa is investigating licensed online gambling providers to ensure adherence to the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act (Wwft). Providers with higher risks of money laundering, identified using data such as market share and demographics, will be prioritized. The Ksa will request specific data and provide individual feedback post-investigation, with potential enforcement actions for non-compliance, such as fines or directives.
These efforts underline the Dutch Gaming Authority’s determination to create a safer and fairer gambling environment.
