The Norwegian Gaming Authority has asked Apple to block access of gambling apps, so that Norwegians cannot access the online gambling content. Apple has complied and a total of 38 unlicensed applications connected to some form of gambling have now been blocked in the region.

Gambling App Removal:

According to CalvinAyre…

Adessa, a news site in Norway, revealed that the gambling regulator of the state was able to convince the tech giant to remove the online gambling apps from its App Store in Norway, based on the fact that the operators are not licensed to offer such content in the country.

Several gambling companies were included in the removal, such as LeoVegas, Betsson, Unibet, The Netherlands, Comeon, NordicBet, Norway’s Automation and Coolbet. Both ComeOn and Coolbet have stated that they feel it is legal for residents of Norway to play their gaming options as they are licensed via the EU Free Trade Zone.

In their request for removal, the regulator stated that the App Store of Apple has guidelines that prohibits gambling applications from operating without licensing. Frank Hoff Hana, the Senior Advisor of the Norwegian Lottery Authority stated that the decision by Apple was one that will contribute in a positive way by reducing the illegal gaming offer aimed at residents in Norway.

Regulations Needed: 

Gambling operators do not agree and feel that removing the applications is not going to help resolve any problem or illegal gambling in the country. Morten Klein, the Chair of Cherry AB, commented that the blockage restrictions will only create more problem gamblers and false hope for politicians and organizations that fight gaming addiction. Klein suggested that the country follow the same actions as Sweden and Denmark, creating a licensing option for gambling instead.

Klein stated that the Lottery Authority needs to determine how to regulate the gaming market. According to Klein, online gaming has been offered for 18 years and there have become more problem players. The situation must end with regulation and as long as Norway is part of the EU/EEA regulations, then Klein feels that Norwegians are fully allowed to take part.