New measures are being introduced by the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), to protect consumers from gambling addiction and abuse. This is part of an ongoing effort by the Dutch gambling regulator, the KSA, to improve the protection already offered to the public.
The Netherlands is set on strengthening the protection consumers already have. The KSA has already published reams of Responsible Gambling legislation; to further guide the licensing process of new applications and the control of existing gambling establishments.
A grace period up to the 1st of October 2024 is already in place, allowing operators additional time to prepare terms, conditions, and update processes. This also allows time for operators to train, hire, and contract in additional support to control real-time monitoring.
This extra time also gives the regulator more time to evaluate the details needed, and the exemptions to be applied. From there, the KSA can create the necessary texts, publications, and links for operators to follow.
While all this preparation is in process, the Netherlands is also debating whether to toughen current gambling rules. Such topics involve an outright banning of Chance Games like Slots and stopping Gambling advertisements altogether.
There is a middle ground, of trying to improve Responsible Gaming play with regulation to Limit deposits, depending on age groups.
Proposed Age Categories for Deposit Limits:
Beyond the set deposit limits, operators will be obliged to perform, what the United Kingdom has termed, “affordability checks” — to prove players are not gambling in ways that affect their standards of living or acceptable lifestyle. These Checks are now part of a greater debate between the industry and regulators.
Operators in the Netherlands will need to monitor and immediately block a player from making any further deposits if it is shown they are doing so beyond their financial abilities. This all comes at a time when the Netherlands market has shown some of the fastest growth in history.
Real-time monitoring is vital in protecting not only the players but also the operators. Actively watching the gambling behaviors of a player, means automation can be in place to prevent excessive or suspicious gambling or flag potential issues.
Automation means the system can keep up with the 24/7 hours of modern online casinos and be quickly modified to account for new rules or changes in regulations.
Lawmakers from the Netherlands are understandably worried about certain operators targeting minors and Gambling addicts — and ignoring responsible Gaming rules. This is why the latest regulations are being fast-tracked, to force all parties to apply to the new rules. Regulation works in favor of the players and the operators.
A well-regulated and responsible business that looks after its players, grows a better reputation. Responsible Gaming is here to stay and should help ensure the sustainability of the market for many years to come.
