René Jansen, chairman of the Netherlands’ gaming regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), is urging the government to impose a spending limit on online gaming as a consumer protection measure.
Jensen spoke September 7 at the European Association for the Study of Gambling (EASG). He said setting a limit wasn’t enough, that the government should do more to protect gamblers from themselves. He praised other European governments for setting deposit limits, something the Netherlands has not yet adopted.
Jensen declared, “I increasingly wonder whether we offer sufficient protection and safety to players with the current interpretation of the duty of care.” He added, “I see that the behavior of gambling providers still leaves a lot to be desired.”
The chairman continued, “Tightening up the duty of care is therefore not an unnecessary luxury and we can learn from other countries, but the ultimate choice lies with the legislator.”
The same week that Jensen made his remarks, KSA continued to increase its pressure on illegal offshore foreign gaming operators to cease marketing to and accepting Dutch players. KSA sent cease and desist orders to the sportsbook MKC Limited and the online casino Betworld247.com ordering them to exit the Netherlands or pay fines.
Before imposing the fine, KSA conducted an investigation of the MKC Limited site and determined that it is available to consumers. An investigator was able to create an account, make a deposit and play—with the site taking no measures to prevent Dutch consumers from signing on.
MKC Limited faces weekly penalties of €28,000, up to a maximum of €84,000 total.
Ever since the Netherlands online regulated market went live last October, it has cracked down on the offshore sites. The KSA issued this comment regarding the fines: “Since 1 October 2021, licensed providers have been allowed to offer online games of chance in the Netherlands under strict conditions. These conditions are aimed at ensuring a safe legal offer, whereby players are assured of fair play and are protected against gambling addiction. This includes a strict approach to illegal supply.”
