The Dutch Gaming Authority, Kansspelautoriteit, has warned that unlawful, unlicensed internet gaming websites would soon be blocked in the Netherlands. 

KSA to clamp down illegal operator

Additionally, the regulator has recommended that players withdraw any remaining funds from these businesses, stating that “there are no guarantees that illegal providers will reimburse money if they are unable to be contacted from the Netherlands.” The Ksa, it states, is incapable of mediating in this matter.

On October 1, 2021, the Netherlands debuted its online gambling marketplace and swiftly announced that it will take extensive steps to prevent illicit operators from targeting Dutch consumers, including IP and payment blocking, as well as enhanced fines and punishments.

Previously, the Ksa declared that 25 gaming websites will be reviewed in further detail; however, since the number of websites under investigation has grown, the Ksa stated that they will “soon learn that they are under investigation and enforcement action will be taken.”

These aforementioned blackout rules have also been applied to all operators awaiting approval from the KSA to enter the market, with operators such as Betsson, LeoVegas, and Kindred among those that have ceased accepting Dutch players in anticipation of a future goal of operating under the new regime.

Additional permits to be issued

The Ksa granted an initial ten licenses to kick-start the region’s digital industry, including authorization for the Toto Online brand of Nederlandse Loterij, the Dutch arcade firm FPO Netherlands, Holland Casino, and NSUS Malta, which operates GGPoker.

Moreover, Play North of Estonia, operator of the Rocket Casino and Pikakasino brands, Tombola, bet365, Bingoal of Belgium, Betent of Italy, and LiveScore Malta are entrants. JOI Gaming obtained the 11th permit in November through a license for its online casino jacks.nl.