Denmark Orders Record Blocking of 178 Illegal Gambling Sites

On June 26, the court in Frederiksberg granted the Danish Gambling Authority (Spillemyndigheden) permission to block 178 gambling websites that were operating illegally in Denmark. This is the largest number of domain blocks approved at once since site blocking began in 2012. The ruling brings the total number of blocked gambling sites in Denmark to 616.

The move is part of an increasingly assertive approach by Spillemyndigheden to protect the licensed market and ensure consumers are not exposed to operators lacking Danish approval.

Until recently, the Gambling Authority typically pursued one blocking case per year. That changed in 2023, when it began filing cases twice annually to speed up enforcement.

“It’s certainly frustrating that illegal gambling websites keep appearing,” said Spillemyndigheden Director Anders Dorph. “But I’m pleased that we now have effective tools to detect and block them. Since last year, we’ve intensified our efforts with two blocking procedures a year, enabling us to shut down access more quickly.”

How the Blocking Process Works?

Once a gambling site is flagged as operating without a license, Spillemyndigheden initially asks the operator to cease offering services to Danish users. If the site remains active, the Authority approaches internet service providers with a request to block access.

However, the actual block requires a court order, which telecom providers must obtain to proceed. This legal safeguard adds length to the process, but also ensures due process is followed. Once approved, DNS blocking is implemented, cutting off user access at the network level. Attempts to visit a blocked site result in a warning message informing users that the site has been restricted by the Gambling Authority.

What Constitutes Illegal Gambling in Denmark?

Gambling is considered illegal in Denmark if it targets Danish players without a license. Indicators that a site is aimed at the Danish market include:

• Use of the Danish language

• Transactions in Danish kroner

• Support for Danish-only payment cards

• Danish-language customer support

• Local betting offers, including on low-tier national sporting events

• Integration with platforms like Steam for distributing computer games

These criteria allow Spillemyndigheden to identify when a site is tailored specifically to the Danish audience, even if operated from abroad.

Licensing Mark Offers Consumer Protection

Operators licensed in Denmark are required to display the Spillemyndigheden’s official licensing seal on their websites. This mark not only confirms legal status, but also helps players distinguish between compliant and rogue operators.

The mark cannot be used without written consent from the Authority, and its presence indicates that the operator adheres to Danish gambling law, including player protection measures.