The Dutch Gaming Authority (Kansspelautoriteit/KSA) recently announced a crackdown on multiple illegal poker tournaments that took place in 2024. As a result of these enforcement actions, tens of thousands of euros in cash were seized, and a financial penalty of EUR 110,000 was imposed on one event organizer.
KSA Targeted Several Illegal Events in Q4
The KSA explained that illegal poker tournaments are often organized by criminals using legitimate businesses as fronts. Unlicensed gambling poses numerous risks for players, who lack the protections provided by the legal industry and may develop gambling addictions. Committed to eradicating illegal poker, the KSA carried out six operations against such tournaments in the final quarter of 2024.
Inspectors dismantled illegal poker events in various municipalities, including Amsterdam, Asten, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Tilburg, uncovering substantial amounts of cash at each location, including a notable EUR 40,000 in one instance. Following the regulator’s actions, one establishment was permanently closed by municipal order.
Additionally, in a separate case, the KSA issued a financial penalty to an organizer of illegal poker games.
Exclusive Rights to Holland Casino for Poker Tournaments
The KSA reminded Dutch players that Holland Casino is the only authorized operator for organizing poker tournaments in the country. This exclusivity has been in place since 1975, rendering all other poker events illegal.
The regulator pledged to intensify its oversight and intervention efforts in 2025, collaborating with partners such as the police and local authorities. The KSA also warned that it would increase independent actions against violations.
Increase in Potential Match-Fixing Cases
The KSA’s commitment to stricter regulation comes amid rising concerns about problem gambling and integrity issues. The regulator’s Match-Fixing Trend Analysis for 2024 indicated a spike in potential match-fixing instances, suggesting an uptick in illicit activities. While this increase could indicate better reporting by operators, it may also reflect a genuine rise in match-fixing.
In related news, the Dutch Gambling Authority issued a notice cautioning companies against breaching rules related to autoplay functionality. Autoplay options are prohibited in the Netherlands.
