Dutch Regulator Issues Significant Fine to NetX Betting for Unlicensed Gambling
The Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) has fined NetX Betting Limited €675,000 ($729,000) for offering unlicensed online gambling services through two websites, pferdewetten.de and betbird.com.
KSA’s Strict Measures Against Illegal Gambling
The KSA found that NetX Betting had violated Dutch regulations by operating without the necessary licenses. A basic fine of €600,000 was imposed, alongside an additional penalty due to aggravating factors in the case.
This isn’t the first instance of enforcement against NetX; the company was previously directed to halt its activities in the Netherlands under the Betting and Gaming Act.
Broader Regulatory Action Across the Market
NetX is not alone in facing penalties this month. The KSA also fined BlockDance BV for similar unlicensed activities, while Winbet faces potential weekly fines of €280,000 for operating four illegal gambling websites unless it ceases its activities.
Statement from KSA’s Chairman on Player Protection
Michel Groothuizen, Chairman of the KSA, highlighted the importance of protecting Dutch players from the risks associated with illegal operators.
“Dutch players need to be protected: that is why we are cracking down hard on illegal offers. We see that illegal providers often pay little attention to the player and do not adhere to a duty of care,” he stated.
Groothuizen also pointed out concerning practices observed in the NetX case:
“Here, for example, we saw the practice that players who are inactive for a long time after creating an account are given a ‘fine’ by the provider. If they do not play for a certain period of time, an amount of €5 per month is charged. A player is then punished if he does not participate in the (illegal) games of chance offered. That of course goes beyond all bounds.”