Dutch Gaming Authority Fines Two Providers €1.8 Million for Illegally Offering Online Games of Chance

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (February 9, 2023) — The Dutch Gaming Authority (Ksa) has fined Equinox Dynamic NV from Curaçao and Domiseda and Partners sro from Slovakia both €900,000 (total €1.8 million). Equinox Dynamic and Domiseda gave players in the Netherlands the opportunity to participate in games of chance without the required license. This is prohibited under the Betting and Gaming Act (Wok). Enforcing this ban is one of the priorities of the Ksa. Because there were also various aggravating circumstances, including the lack of age verification, a fine of 900,000 euros was imposed on both providers.

Joint offer, both providers fined

Casino games were offered without a license on the website orientxpresscasino.com. Investigation revealed that Equinox Dynamic and Domiseda both acted as providers. That is why the Gaming Authority imposed a fine on both providers for the violation.

Safe play threat

Offering online games of chance is only allowed with a license from the Ksa. This is subject to strict rules and regulations aimed at ensuring that there is a safe legal offer, whereby players are assured of fair play and are protected against gambling addiction.

A licensed provider of online games of chance incurs costs for applying for and maintaining a license that illegal providers of online games of chance do not have to incur. In addition, illegal providers do not pay any tax in the Netherlands and are not restricted in the conduct of their business by the strict rules of the Betting and Gaming Act and the associated licensing regulations. This allows illegal providers to offer games of chance that are prohibited for license holders or offer higher prices and bonuses.
René Jansen, chairman of the Ksa: ‘The objective is to create a safe environment for people who want to gamble online. This includes taking strict action against illegal providers.’

SOURCE: Kansspelautoriteit.