The Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, or KSA) has imposed a fine on a catering establishment in Helmond after two illegal gaming machines were found on the premises. Each machine was in breach of gambling laws, leading to a potential penalty of up to 20,000 in total.
Illegal betting machines seized
In November 2024, KSA inspectors discovered and seized two gaming machines at a venue in Helmond. The machines were found to contain unauthorised software that allowed users to place bets on sports events via an internet connection. Such systems are strictly prohibited under Dutch law.
The that the devices operated without the necessary licences and breached several national gambling rules. As a result, the operator faces a penalty of 10,000 per violation, which can add up to 20,000.
Risks to players and public safety
The KSA declared that illicit machines pose serious threats. Since they are unregulated, they do not provide player protection measures like responsible gaming aids, fair play controls, or age checks. This exposes consumers to risks, particularly minors and vulnerable players who may develop gambling addictions.
Moreover, these systems do not contribute any taxes to the Dutch economy, increasing their appeal for illegal operations. The regulator warned that such machines are often linked to money laundering activities due to their untraceable nature.
Tightened enforcement on gambling advertising
This latest action is part of a broader clampdown by the KSA on unlicensed gambling and advertising violations. The authority has been stepping up its monitoring efforts to ensure full compliance with national gambling laws.
From 1 July 2025, the KSA will enforce a full ban on sports sponsorships related to gambling. This includes restrictions on athletes, teams, shirts, and other forms of promotional content linked to betting companies.
Earlier enforcement actions
In a separate case earlier this month, the KSA ordered gambling operator Betca to remove its mobile game adverts from the popular game Tiny Tower.
The advertisement was linked to Betca, the licensed operator of Circus.nl. According to the KSA, the ad violated rules that prohibit gambling promotions in digital spaces where children and young people may be active.
Tiny Tower is a casual mobile game with a broad user base, including minors. Dutch law explicitly bars gambling operators from advertising in such environments. The appearance of the Circus.nl ad raised immediate red flags for the regulator. Upon being alerted by the KSA, Betca took immediate steps to remove the ad.
