Norway Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Ads
The Norwegian Gambling Authority (NGA) has escalated efforts to combat illegal gambling promotions by issuing stern warnings and threatening significant daily fines against companies and influencers involved in unauthorized gambling activities.
Appeals and Rulings Uphold NGA’s Findings
The investigation revealed that Schpell, operated by Tiergarten Marketing Ltd., had promoted illegal gambling through platforms like Twitch, Kick, and YouTube. These advertisements reportedly targeted young Norwegian audiences, raising alarms among regulators.
“We observed marketing of gambling games with a high risk for gambling addiction, specifically directed at young Norwegian followers. This is a serious matter, as influencers have significant power over their audiences,” said Monica Alisøy Kjelsnes, legal representative for the NGA.
The crackdown intensified after Schpell, alongside affiliates Tiergarten Marketing, Baris Entertainment, and Viken Underholdning, appealed NGA’s findings to the Lottery Appeals Board (Lotterinemnda). The board upheld the original ruling, confirming that the parties had violated Norway’s stringent laws prohibiting unauthorized gambling marketing.
“The Lottery Appeals Board has conducted a thorough review and issued a clear decision. There is no doubt that this marketing is illegal,” added Kjelsnes.
The authority has demanded the immediate cessation of all unlawful promotional activities, aligning with the board’s decision.
Daily Fines for Continued Non-Compliance
In response to continued violations, the NGA has imposed significant daily fines for non-compliance. Tiergarten Marketing faces NOK 250,000 per day, while Baris Entertainment and Viken Underholdning face NOK 50,000 daily. These fines will activate if the parties fail to remove all illegal gambling advertisements and halt such promotions by December 17.
“They have been granted an extended deadline to respond to the notice. If they cease illegal advertising and remove all previous content, they can avoid the fines,” explained Kjelsnes.
Norway’s Strict Regulatory Environment
Norway enforces some of the world’s strictest gambling advertising regulations.
Even monopolistic operators like Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto are restricted from promoting gambling or betting services in their advertisements.
Furthermore, foreign companies are prohibited from operating in the country, and any media perceived as promoting gambling is banned.
