The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has launched an investigation into the promotion of illegal gambling sites through magazines and online newspapers. This action follows reports of articles encouraging readers to engage in gambling activities without using Cruks, the Dutch self-exclusion register. The KSA’s research, conducted over the past six months, uncovered multiple instances of media outlets promoting unlicensed gambling services, a practice that poses significant risks to vulnerable players.

Cruks registration and its role in protecting vulnerable players:

The investigation by KSA was broad in scope, going beyond direct links to illegal websites. It also examined other forms of promotional content, such as endorsements, logos, and images of Dutch banks used to enhance the appeal of illegal operators. In total, KSA reached out to 42 editorial offices, warning them about the harmful nature of these articles. The regulator’s efforts led to the successful removal of links to unlicensed gambling sites from several publications. Additionally, KSA sent information letters to the affected organizations, providing guidance on preventing such violations in the future.

One of the key findings of KSA’s research is the significant risk posed by the promotion of gambling sites that are not integrated with Cruks. The Cruks system allows players to self-exclude from gambling when they feel their behavior is getting out of control, a feature that is only available on licensed platforms. By promoting unlicensed sites that do not participate in Cruks, publications are inadvertently encouraging gambling behavior that could harm individuals, particularly those who are trying to regain control over their gambling habits.

KSA emphasized the importance of Cruks, stating, “Registration with Cruks allows players to take a break if they feel that they no longer have their gambling behaviour under control.” The authority stressed that illegal operators, not bound by such regulations, fail to provide the necessary protections for players dealing with gambling addiction.

The research further highlighted how some articles did not just contain links to illegal sites but also promoted them through other forms of content. Using logos and images of financial institutions in these promotional pieces only added to the allure of these unlicensed sites, potentially confusing readers into believing they were engaging with legitimate providers.

KSA’s call for player caution and gambling guide usage:

To safeguard the public, KSA is urging players to consult the Gaming Guide available on the regulator’s official website. The guide lists all licensed gambling providers, ensuring that players can easily verify whether a platform is operating within the legal framework of the Netherlands. KSA stressed that by using this guide, players can avoid gambling with illegal operators who do not offer the same protections as licensed entities.

In line with its mission to ensure safe gaming practices, KSA continues to prioritize player protection. The regulator’s investigation serves as a reminder of the risks of engaging with illegal gambling providers, especially those not participating in the Cruks program, which could leave players unprotected.

KSA’s actions are part of a broader crackdown on illegal gambling activities in the Netherlands. Earlier this month, the authority imposed a €900,000 fine on Sarah Eternal for offering illegal online gambling services via the site Casinosky. The violations included allowing Dutch players to access the platform without age verification systems and offering crypto betting options, both of which are prohibited under Dutch law.

Additionally, KSA has been actively addressing illegal poker tournaments across various cities, seizing significant sums of money from illicit gambling operations. One operator was hit with a €110,000 fine for their involvement in these illegal activities. These efforts underscore the KSA’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the Dutch gambling market and protecting players from the dangers of unregulated gambling sites.

In a related effort, the KSA has also begun focusing on online gambling autoplay features, which are strictly prohibited due to their association with problem gambling. This ongoing crackdown aims to further reinforce safe gaming practices across the Netherlands.