The Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) has once again had to intervene after several influencers spread advertisements for illegal online gambling via their social media channels. The authority sees this as a clear danger to consumers, as unauthorized providers neither protect players nor promote responsible gaming. Young target groups, who frequently follow streamers, are thus particularly targeted by illegal casinos that are not subject to any regulation.
The KSA has intensified its monitoring measures in recent months and is now responding much more harshly to violations. Three streamers – known under the names Stiefunspeelt, Turcos, and Buurtwachtt – were directly ordered to delete their content within 48 hours. Failure to comply with this order could result in heavy fines of up to €25.000 per violation, with a maximum of €75.000.
The authority is pursuing a clear line: first a short deadline for the removal of the material, then severe sanctions.
This approach marks the beginning of a tightened control policy aimed primarily at social media. There, influencers spread gambling content in live streams or short videos, often with direct links to illegal platforms. This form of advertising is particularly problematic because it occurs in real time and is tailored to young viewers.
Consequences for influencers and gambling advertising
One of the most well-known cases is the influencer LeftlanePapi, whose real name is Djade Sadloe. He repeatedly promoted unlicensed gambling operators and received an official penalty notice from the KSA. This makes it clear: the Dutch regulator will no longer tolerate violations and wants to set a deterrent example.
The KSA is not only taking action against individual streamers, but has also announced that it will be paying more attention to marketing structures in the future. This means that not only the influencers themselves but also the media companies, affiliate partners, and advertising networks involved will be targeted. The goal is to disrupt the entire supply chain of illegal gambling advertising.
According to the KSA, any form of gambling advertising without a valid license violates the rules in force since July 2023, which particularly affect sponsorship and influencer marketing.
Since then, strict advertising restrictions have been in place in the Netherlands. Untargeted advertising that appeals to broad audiences is no longer permitted. Sponsorship of sports clubs or events by gambling providers has also been banned. Influencer marketing is also completely prohibited, as it has a strong appeal to minors and young adults.
Recent cases show that violations are still occurring. However, the swift intervention of the supervisory authority ensures that content disappears in a very short time. At the same time, with the threatened fines, the KSA signals that violations are hardly financially worthwhile.
Significance for the market
The tightened regulations also impact the legal market. Reputable providers with a Dutch license must clearly adapt their advertising to the requirements. While legal companies are increasingly focusing on targeted and responsible advertising, illegal providers continue to try to gain reach through social media.
For users, this means that anyone who encounters content from streamers promoting unlicensed casinos should be aware that these offerings are unregulated. There is no buyer protection or legal recourse to winnings. Furthermore, data protection and responsible gaming are by no means guaranteed.
Current developments demonstrate that the Netherlands is consistently pursuing its chosen path. The KSA will continue to closely monitor content circulating online and intervene rigorously in the event of violations. In doing so, the authority is sending a clear message: advertising for illegal gambling has no place in the country.
