Date: 18.10.2024

by Adam Dworak

Dutch Regulator Takes Action Against BlokDance for Illegal Gambling Operations

The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) has issued a stern warning to BlokDance for operating illegal gambling websites in the country. Despite initial efforts to block access, Dutch players were still able to participate, prompting the regulator to impose heavy financial penalties.

Unlicensed Gambling Operations

BlokDance, an operator behind the websites bc.game and bcgame.lu, has come under scrutiny from the KSA for offering illegal gambling services in the Netherlands.

According to the regulator, BlokDance has been running games of chance without a valid license, violating Dutch gambling regulations.

Despite initial contact from KSA, BlokDance’s response was inadequate, as players in the Netherlands continued to access the websites, create accounts, make deposits, and gamble.

KSA noted that no technical measures had been implemented to effectively block Dutch players from participating in these illegal activities.

Penalties Imposed on BlokDance

In light of the ongoing violations, KSA has decided to take further action against BlokDance.

The regulator has set a weekly penalty of €280,000, with a maximum potential fine of €840,000 if the operator does not cease operations within four weeks.

KSA emphasized that the Dutch gambling market is regulated to protect consumers, and it will take firm action against any illegal operators.

“With a penalty payment order, illegal offers are often quickly stopped,” KSA stated, reaffirming its commitment to cracking down on unlicensed gambling providers.

Calls for Stricter Monitoring

This case comes at a time when several industry bodies in the Netherlands are calling for enhanced monitoring of the black market.

Both the Netherlands Online Gambling Association (NOGA) and the Licensed Dutch Online Gambling Providers (VNLOK) have urged regulators to tighten controls following new data suggesting lower-than-expected channelisation rates.

While the KSA estimates that 95% of Dutch gambling activity occurs within regulated markets, industry data points to a lower figure of around 87%.

The difference suggests that a significant portion of player spending is still directed towards illegal gambling platforms, underscoring the need for stricter oversight.