Dutch gambling regulator KSA concludes investigation into newspaper ads promoting illegal online casinos, highlighting concerns about player protection and industry compliance.
Key Takeaways:
- KSA’s six-month probe examined illegal gambling site advertisements in magazines and online newspapers
- Editors promptly removed links to illegal sites upon contact and received guidance on future compliance
- Regulator emphasizes the importance of players using the Gambling Guide to identify licensed providers
KSA Investigates Newspaper Advertisements
The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) has wrapped up a six-month investigation into newspapers advertising illegal online casinos on their websites. The probe focused on gambling sites not connected to the Dutch self-exclusion platform Cruks, which were being promoted through various media outlets.
As part of the investigation, the KSA research team reached out to 42 editors to inform them about the issues associated with promoting these unauthorized sites. The regulator stated, “This research proves that players are sometimes seduced into illegal gambling and even playing without Cruks without realising it.”
Protecting Players and Promoting Compliance
The KSA emphasized the importance of players consulting the Gambling Guide on Kansspelautoriteit.nl before engaging in online gambling activities. This resource lists all licensed providers authorized to offer gambling services in the Netherlands, helping players avoid illegal operators that lack proper player protection measures.
The investigation’s scope extended beyond direct web links to illegal providers, also examining the use of brand recommendations, logos, and images of Dutch banks. Upon being contacted, editors promptly removed links to illegal gambling sites and received guidance on preventing future violations.
Concerns Over Tipster Site and Youth Exposure
In a related development, the KSA recently investigated tipster site Analyse Master. While no direct violations were found, the regulator expressed concerns about its popularity among young people, who are more susceptible to gambling addiction.
KSA chair Michel Groothuizen commented on the issue, stating, “The fact that there are channels on social media that promote sports betting among young adults is a very undesirable and worrying development, because young adults are vulnerable and susceptible to gambling addiction.”
Future Regulatory Developments
The KSA is looking forward to potential adjustments in advertising rules, as announced by state secretary Struycken in a recent vision on gambling. These changes would allow the regulatory authority to take more active measures against third-party promoters of gambling services, further enhancing player protection and industry oversight.
