The Netherlands is introducing new rules for online gambling licenses, aimed at keeping the market steady ahead of the next renewal round.The move, scheduled to take...
Dutch politicians call to block illegal gambling sites
Two Dutch politicians, Mikal Tseggai (Labor Party) and Willem Koops (New Social Contract Party), are calling on the Dutch government to step up efforts against illegal iGaming.
In the Netherlands, only licensed gambling companies are allowed to operate in the country. Despite this, illegal operators continue to find ways around the rules. Some even go as far as using specific search terms like “websites not on Cruks,” referring to the Dutch self-exclusion system designed to protect people struggling with gambling addiction.
Unlicensed gambling sites are still visible in Google searches and target vulnerable Dutch citizens, even though this goes against national regulations.
Politicians shared a statement:
“The House of Representatives heard the deliberation requesting the government to include a ban on advertising and making gambling websites findable in search engines in the new gambling law, unless the Gambling Authority has exceptionally certified a provider as a reliable organisation, the so-called whitelisting, on the basis of a careful review.”
Tseggai and Koops want the updated gambling laws to include a clear ban on making illegal gambling sites visible through search engines unless the sites are on a carefully checked whitelist. Recently, a total ban on iGaming ads has fueled concerns in the Netherlands.
Google says it’s already taking action by restricting ads from unlicensed operators and following strict policies in countries like the Netherlands. However, lawmakers believe it’s time for stronger tools — possibly even allowing internet service providers (ISPs) to block illegal sites, similar to what’s been done in Australia.
FAQs
Is gambling legal in the Netherlands?
Gambling in the Netherlands is legal and strictly regulated by the Dutch Gambling Authority, Kansspelautoriteit.
What is the legal gambling age in the Netherlands?
The legal gambling age in the Netherlands is 18 years old.
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