The Kansspelautoriteit Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) has imposed a €400,000 ($416,204) fine on Optdeck Service Limited, the operator of Unibet, for voilating self-exclusion rules in the Netherlands. The penalty comes after it was revealed that players registered on the Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen (Cruks) self-exclusion system were able to gamble on the Unibet platform.
Safety net for Dutch players
Cruks, is a self-exclusion tool designed to protect players in the Netherlands from gambling harm. By using their unique citizen service number (BSN), individuals can block themselves from accessing both land-based and online gambling platforms. In cases of a user trying to log in or sign up, the BSN is checked against the Cruks database for conformity.
However, in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Unibet did not adhere to this critical procedure. There were about 15 self-excluded players who could place bets on the site.
World cup errors exposed
The issue came to light on 28 June 2023, when a player informed the KSA that they had gambled on Unibet despite being on the Cruks register. Further investigation revealed significant lapses in Unibet’s processes during the busy World Cup period.
The BSN number verification required was discarded by Optdeck, who instead chose to use a very old API method, which is known as ConsultDocumentRequest. Optdeck admitted that the reason was it wanted to eliminate error messages since there was too much traffic during the global event. While this approach may have improved system functionality, it directly violated Dutch gambling regulations.
Optdeck’s statement
Optdeck stated it would not challenge the KSA’s decision. The operator explained that the high volume of sign-ups during the World Cup led to technical challenges in accessing Cruks. However, this justification on the part of the company did not exempt the company from its legal obligations.
The KSA maintained that self-exclusion systems such as Cruks are improtant for preventing vulnerable players from being harmed. Optdeck failed to check players against the register; its failure to do so would have disregarded such protections, which resulted in the substantial fine.
Other recent penalties by KSA
Recently, the authority penalised FBC BV for offering gambling services in the Netherlands without the necessary licence. These fines highlight the KSA’s commitment to maintaining a safe and regulated gambling environment.
The KSA’s actions serve as a reminder to all operators about the importance of adhering to Dutch gambling laws. Self-exclusion tools, such as Cruks, are essential in mitigating harm from gambling, and not following the regulations will lead to severe punishment.
The cost of non-compliance for Unibet would be €400,000. It means that being compliant is worth more for them than technical shortcuts to better protect players. As the Dutch gaming market continues to grow, such operators must remain vigilant in maintaining the regulations to maintain trust and credibility.
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