GoldWin Faces €6,794,000 Fine for Breaching Gambling Laws in Netherlands

The Dutch Gaming Authority (Ksa) has dealt a substantial blow to GoldWin Limited, slapping them with a formidable fine of €6,794,000. The reason behind this punitive measure? GoldWin was found guilty of violating the Gambling Act (Wok) by providing illegal games of chance on its platform, westcasino.com.

Covert Operations Exposed

The meticulous scrutiny of KSA inspectors unraveled GoldWin's covert operations. They successfully infiltrated the platform, created accounts, logged in, and actively participated in online gambling activities on westcasino.com. Shockingly, GoldWin had not implemented fundamental technical safeguards, such as IP blocking, allowing unhindered access for Dutch players. Additionally, the absence of age verification mechanisms added another layer of concern.

GoldWin's transgressions did not go unnoticed. A stern warning was issued in January 2023, instructing it to halt its illicit activities. However, GoldWin remained unresponsive. It wasn't until April 20, 2023, that GoldWin faced a penalty order, compelling an immediate cessation of its unauthorized online gambling endeavors. Compliance finally ensued, putting an end to the illegal operations.

The Aftermath - Fines for Past Transgressions

Even with a cease and desist order in place, providers can still face fines for past violations. GoldWin falls into this category, leading to the substantial €6,794,000 penalty imposed by the Ksa. The fine serves as a stark reminder that legal consequences can extend beyond cease and desist orders.

The GoldWin case underscores the stringent regulatory framework governing online gambling in the Netherlands. Industry players must heed warnings, implement essential safeguards, and ensure compliance with legal requirements to navigate the ever-evolving regulatory landscape successfully. The incident serves as a cautionary tale for operators, emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to gaming laws to avoid severe repercussions.

René Jansen, chairman of the KSA commented on this move saying: ''We can often quickly put a stop to illegal supply with an order subject to a penalty. This does not mean that previously committed illegal activities disappear from view: they can still be punished.

Source:

''GoldWin Limited krijgt boete van €6.794.000 voor illegaal aanbod'', kansspelautoriteit.nl, October 30, 2023.