Denmark’s gambling regulatory framework has undergone significant updates to enhance oversight and maintain the integrity of the gambling industry. The Danish Gambling Authority (DGA) has introduced new measures to combat illegal marketing practices, overhauled the certification program for betting and online casinos, and tightened regulations concerning high-risk jurisdictions. These initiatives reflect Denmark’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling and preventing financial crimes.
Stricter Controls on Gambling Marketing
The DGA, in collaboration with the Consumer Ombudsman and the Gambling Advertising Board, has forged a new agreement to intensify efforts against the illegal marketing of gambling services. This agreement aims to streamline actions taken against non-compliance by consolidating resources and information sharing among the three bodies. It establishes clear protocols for forwarding cases and addressing violations, particularly those that mislead or exploit vulnerable groups.
Under the new framework, the Gambling Advertising Board will escalate serious non-compliance issues to the Consumer Ombudsman or the DGA. Conversely, the ombudsman and the DGA will direct complaints regarding breaches of the industry’s code of conduct to the Advertising Board. This ensures a coordinated approach to uphold marketing standards, safeguarding consumers and reinforcing social responsibility within the industry.
Revamped Certification Program for Betting and Online Casino
Effective January 1, 2025, Denmark will implement a new certification program for betting and online casinos, with mandatory adoption by July of the same year. The updated program introduces significant changes to license holders’ and game suppliers’ requirements and responsibilities, such as the handling of game and RNG certifications. It also simplifies the reporting and testing processes, reducing the previous two-month deadline for submitting standard reports to one month.
This update is part of the preparation for the DGA’s introduction of a games register that will manage RNG and game certificates more efficiently. The new standards aim to enhance clarity and compliance in the rapidly evolving gambling landscape.
Enhanced Monitoring of High-Risk Jurisdictions
In line with updates from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the DGA has also revised its approach to monitoring high-risk jurisdictions. This includes detailed guidance on enhanced due diligence procedures required for players from countries listed on FATF’s Grey and Black Lists, denoting varying risk levels and recommended actions. This measure is crucial for preventing money laundering and terrorist financing through gambling activities.
Gambling operators are mandated to incorporate these lists into their risk assessments and apply stringent customer due diligence for players from these jurisdictions. This not only complies with international financial security standards but also strengthens the integrity of Denmark’s gambling sector.
Source:
Update to the FATF’s list of high-risk jurisdictions, spillemyndigheden.dk, July 8, 2024.
Consultation on updated certification programme for betting and online casino, spillemyndigheden.dk, July 15, 2024.
Ny aftale skal styrke indsatsen mod spilvirksomheders markedsføring, forbrugerombudsmanden.dk, July 11, 2024.