The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has issued directives to several operators to ensure adherence to payout regulations. This move comes after an investigation revealed that 13 licensed operators were not fully complying with the payout requirements mandated by the Dutch Gambling Act. The KSA's findings have prompted a strong response aimed at ensuring that all operators adhere strictly to their licensing obligations.
Investigation Findings
The KSA's investigation uncovered that nine online gambling operators were actively obstructing customer payout requests. In addition to these, four other operators were suspected of similar practices. According to the Dutch Gambling Act, requests for player payouts must be processed immediately and without any conditions attached. This legislation is designed to protect players and ensure that they have prompt access to their winnings without facing unnecessary barriers or delays.
The breaches were identified following a reminder issued by the KSA in March 2024. At that time, the regulator reiterated the regulatory requirements that all licensed operators must follow. The KSA provided clear examples of unacceptable practices, such as imposing minimum payout amounts or requiring players to meet specific wagering conditions before their winnings could be withdrawn. These practices were highlighted as violations of the Dutch Gambling Act, which seeks to ensure fair treatment for all players.
Under the Dutch Gambling Act, all licensed operators are required to process payments securely and distribute player credits promptly. The legislation stipulates that when a player requests a payout, the operator must debit the gaming account and credit the player’s account without delay. This requirement is central to the law's objective of protecting consumer rights within the Netherlands.
In response to the investigation, the KSA has ordered all 13 operators identified in the investigation to provide written confirmation that they are not imposing any conditions on player payouts, including minimum withdrawal amounts or other restrictive requirements. This directive is intended to ensure that operators comply fully with the Dutch Gambling Act and that player rights are upheld.
KSA's Statement
The KSA has emphasized that operators must not impose any structural conditions that could prevent the direct payment of player credits. In a statement, the regulator reiterated its commitment to enforcing the rules: “A provider may not impose structural conditions that prevent direct payment. Player credits must therefore be refunded without unnecessary delay. Nevertheless, the KSA receives signals that providers of online gambling do impose conditions on the payment of player credits.''
This statement reflects the KSA's ongoing efforts to monitor the gambling industry and ensure that all licensed operators adhere to the legal requirements. The regulator's proactive approach is aimed at maintaining the integrity of the Dutch gambling market and protecting consumers from unfair practices.
The KSA has been actively overseeing the implementation of the Dutch Gambling Act, which came into force to regulate the online gambling market in the Netherlands. The Act includes stringent requirements for licensed operators, particularly concerning the secure processing of payments and the prompt distribution of player credits. The KSA's role is to ensure that these requirements are met and to take action against any operators found to be in violation of the law.
In July 2024, KSA chairman Michel Groothuizen publicly commended licensed operators for their overall compliance with the new regulations. His comments were made in the context of the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, a period during which gambling activity typically increases. Groothuizen acknowledged that most operators had adhered to the rules and had shown a commitment to responsible gambling practices.
At the time, Groothuizen stated: “We called on gambling operators to show their best side and, yes, they have shown it. But this did involve closely following laws and regulations. Almost no legal operators crossed the line.”
The recent investigation, however, underscores the need for continued vigilance and enforcement to ensure that all operators comply with their legal obligations. The KSA's actions demonstrate its dedication to upholding the standards set by the Dutch Gambling Act and protecting players from unfair practices in the gambling industry.
Source:
''Ksa tikt 13 aanbieders van online kansspelen op de vingers voor belemmeren uitbetalingen aan spelers'', kansspelautoriteit.nl, August 13, 2024.
