The Dutch Gaming Authority (Kansspelautoriteit or Ksa) has unveiled its Supervision Agenda for 2025, emphasizing the protection of minors and young adults, adherence to advertising regulations, and the elimination of illegal gambling. This comprehensive plan builds on prior efforts to enhance consumer safety and curb harmful gambling practices.
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups
A core priority of the 2025 agenda is addressing underage gambling and the influence of gambling providers on young adults under 24. Recent findings have shown troubling trends, such as minors bypassing restrictions to access gambling platforms and young adults contributing significantly to gambling revenues.
The KSA aims to investigate how age verification systems can be circumvented and whether current registration processes at licensed providers meet security standards. This inquiry will explore the use of identity fraud to create accounts, aiming to tighten controls where necessary. Additionally, the authority plans to study the psychological triggers and marketing tactics that entice younger audiences, expanding educational outreach to counteract these influences.
Strengthening the Duty of Care
Licensed gambling operators are mandated to uphold a “duty of care” by protecting consumers from risky or problematic gambling. In 2025, the Ksa will enhance its oversight of this obligation across both online and land-based venues, such as casinos and gaming halls.
Operators will face increased scrutiny regarding their compliance with responsible gambling measures, including the use of advanced AI-driven tools to detect problematic behavior. The Ksa intends to enforce rigorous risk assessments and implement one-on-one consultations with operators underperforming in consumer safety. Collaborative efforts, such as industry roundtables, will be prioritized to ensure consistent application of safeguards.
Combating Illegal Gambling
Tackling unauthorized gambling remains a significant focus of the Ksa’s agenda. The authority aims to increase the percentage of players using legal platforms to 90% by targeting both illegal operators and those who facilitate their activities, such as affiliates and payment providers.
In 2025, the Ksa plans to conduct numerous investigations into unlicensed gambling activities, including operations on social media and affiliate marketing platforms. It also aims to intervene swiftly against illegal offerings that target vulnerable groups like minors and young adults. This approach includes collaborating with stakeholders to dismantle the networks enabling these activities.
Beyond digital enforcement, physical illegal gambling venues, such as unlicensed poker tournaments and illicit betting locations, will also be monitored. Regional inspectors will work closely with local partners to address these activities and strengthen community-level deterrence.
Enhanced Advertising Regulation
The Ksa has placed significant emphasis on compliance with advertising rules, which were tightened in 2024. Despite these changes, violations remain prevalent, prompting the authority to introduce additional measures.
In 2025, the Ksa will release updated guidelines on advertising practices, including opt-out mechanisms for individuals who do not wish to receive targeted gambling promotions. The authority will also target influencers and affiliates promoting illegal gambling platforms, aiming to eliminate such advertisements swiftly.
From July 2025, stricter bans on sponsorships, including those involving sports teams and events, will take effect. The Ksa intends to ensure all operators and their partners adhere to these regulations, reducing the visibility of gambling promotions to vulnerable audiences.
A Commitment to Safer Gaming
The Ksa’s 2025 agenda underscores its commitment to creating a secure gambling environment in the Netherlands. By prioritizing youth protection, enforcing responsible gambling practices, and combating illegal activities, the authority aims to safeguard consumers while promoting fair play.
This strategy reflects the broader goals outlined in the Ksa’s 2024–2028 roadmap, which focuses on reducing gambling addiction, enhancing consumer education, and addressing criminal elements within the industry. With ongoing stakeholder collaboration and a data-driven approach, the Ksa strives to lead the way in responsible gambling regulation.
Source:
Supervisory agenda 2025: focus on youth, duty of care, illegal immigrants and advertising, Kansspelautoriteit, January 9, 2025.