KSA warns of targeted duties on all Dutch media platforms

Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Netherlands Gambling Authority, has issued a warning to online gambling licensees to ensure their advertising campaigns and marketing comply with targeted rules.

The warning follows a TV advertisement that KSA flagged for featuring the logo of an unnamed licensee, promoted by a partner.

KSA detailed that the infringing advert showed “a commercial for a television channel featuring a football player in a T-shirt with the name of an online gambling provider on it.”

Although the advert did not directly promote an online gambling brand, it was displayed by a third party under a sponsorship agreement with the licensee.

KSA reminded licensed operators that they are always responsible for the expressions of their brand, regardless of who promotes their product.

Since July 2023, non-targeted advertising for online gambling has been banned. Starting 1 July 2024, this ban will extend to TV programs and sponsorships.

All forms of advertising for online gambling in public spaces, on radio, and on TV are prohibited to prevent exposure to vulnerable groups, such as young adults.

The rules under the Remote Gambling Act (KOA) require operators to ensure their marketing campaigns target an audience that is 95% adults (aged 24 and over).

KOA-licensed operators must self-monitor and keep records of individual marketing campaign reports, which must be submitted to KSA for inspection.

The warning concluded that because the provider has taken measures to prevent a recurrence of the violation, the KSA will issue a warning instead of a harsher penalty.