THE HAGUE – Nearly half of all money wagered by Dutch players on online gambling platforms is funneled to illegal websites, according to a report by Nieuwsuur. Four years after the legalization of online gambling in the Netherlands, authorities are struggling to curb these unlicensed operators.

Since 2021, the Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, Ksa) has imposed fines totaling €56 million on illegal platforms. However, only €1.5 million has actually been collected. Enforcement is slow and complicated, as the ownership of many of these sites is obscured behind complex corporate structures.

To improve recovery, the Ksa is now sending bailiffs and debt collection agencies to jurisdictions where many gambling companies are based, including Malta, Costa Rica, and Curaçao.

Risks for players

For consumers, distinguishing legal from illegal sites is difficult. Unlicensed platforms offer no safeguards against gambling addiction or fraud.

Ksa chairman Michel Groothuizen stressed that collecting fines is “really the least of the problems.” According to him, “these sites should simply be shut down.” Countries such as France and Denmark already block illegal operators, but in the Netherlands, such action would require a new political decision.

Until then, the regulator hopes that banks and payment processors such as iDeal will cooperate by blocking transfers to gambling sites in Curaçao and other jurisdictions.

Curaçao’s role in online gambling

Curaçao has long played a central role in the international gambling industry by issuing inexpensive licenses. Hundreds of online casinos have registered there, taking advantage of minimal regulatory oversight.

Many operators use their Curaçao license as a cover to serve players around the world — including in countries where online gambling is prohibited.