KSA cracks down on Winning Poker Network

Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Netherlands Gambling Authority, has intensified its regulatory efforts by issuing enforcement notices to Winning Poker Network and Goldwin for operating without the necessary licenses in the country.

Winning Poker Network, following an investigation in September 2022, was found to allow Dutch players to participate in online casino games through its platforms, including americascardroom.eu and truepoker.eu.

Despite previous assurances to discontinue these practices, a subsequent inquiry revealed that a separate account could easily be created on TruePoker, enabling continued access for Dutch players. As a result, KSA has imposed periodic penalty payments of up to €75,000 on Winning Poker Network until the violations are rectified.

Goldwin, operating through its platform WestCasino, was also discovered to offer online gambling services without the appropriate license.

KSA found evidence of Dutch players accessing the site between March 2022 and February 2023, prompting the issuance of penalties. While Goldwin has since cleaned up the offending material, it remains subject to further penalty payments if it re-engages in unlawful activities. Both Winning Poker Network and Goldwin have the option to appeal these decisions.

René Jansen, Chairman of KSA, underscored the importance of legal compliance among gambling providers, emphasizing that a regulated market can only be achieved by curbing illegal operations. The KSA is committed to protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of the gambling industry through rigorous enforcement actions.

The KSA’s enforcement efforts have been ongoing this year, with several operators facing penalties for various infractions. Recently, Bingoal, an online gambling provider, received a second financial sanction amounting to €400,000 for targeting young adults (aged 18-24) with their advertisements. This followed a €350,000 penalty in February when players were able to access the site without consulting the Cruks self-exclusion system for a limited period in June 2022.

As the KSA continues its regulatory campaign, operators are urged to abide by the licensing requirements and consumer protection measures set forth by the authority. Compliance with these regulations is crucial in establishing a safe and responsible gambling environment in the Netherlands.