Investigation into advertising launched: Gaming Authority takes action
The Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, Ksa) is launching an investigation into advertisements that may be sent to minors and young adults. Because these age groups are considered vulnerable, the Ksa considers it necessary to find out to the bottom whether they may be approached incorrectly.
The research will focus on advertisements but also bonus offers. The Ksa takes this initiative because they believe that the age groups under 24 should be protected from themselves. Therefore, it should not be possible to approach them with any advertisements and bonuses , this can tempt them too much and the Ksa wants to prevent that.
A two-part study
The research will be divided into two parts. The first part will consist of applying for a permit, so that certain data can be requested from the relevant organizations. This involves correspondence such as emails and bonus offers, but also push messages are included in the study. These data are then assessed in terms of content, to make it clear whether any kind of incorrect approach is taking place or has taken place. But in addition to the aforementioned forms of contact, every other form of - possibly - erroneous form of contact will be examined.
The second part of the research will go through social media. The Ksa will then report on the current process and any messages sent to minors and young adults. After all, the majority of this age group has access to one or more social media channels, so by putting out a message on these platforms they try to reach the age groups directly, without any intervention from third parties.
Finally, the Ksa calls for reporting when irregularities are detected, towards young people up to 24 years. For this purpose, the Ksa has a report form online, which makes it easy and accurate to clarify what kind of report and who it concerns.
License
To emphasize: the research focuses on online casinos . They are "just" in possession of a license. Is it unclear if the company is licensed? All licensed providers are listed in the Kansspelwijzer . So if you encounter any irregularities at a company that is on this list, it will be appreciated if you report this. If possible, evidence is also requested. Think of a screenshot or an email. If there are any questions, the Ksa will contact you.
Unfortunately, however, it is not possible to respond to all individual notifications. However, that does not mean that they are not taken seriously. At the end of the investigation, the Ksa will report the result on their website. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]