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A recent survey by the Dutch Gaming Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, KSA) and the national gambling support group AGOG has revealed serious weaknesses in how at-risk gamblers are protected in the Netherlands. The study included 139 people receiving help for gambling-related problems, highlighting the urgent need for better prevention and support measures.
Key FindingsFrom The Survey By The Dutch Gaming Authority
Early Start to Gambling: The majority of respondents (81%) began gambling before the age of 24, with almost half (46%) starting before they turned 18. This early exposure is a major risk for developing gambling problems later in life.
Problematic Behaviours: Nearly all participants reported behaviours linked to gambling addiction, such as chasing losses, gambling daily, and increasing their stakes over time. Three-quarters used multiple gambling websites at the same time, making it harder to control their habits.
Severe Personal Impact: Most respondents experienced financial, social, and mental health problems. About half of them reported losing more than €50,000 due to gambling, while only a quarter lost less than €1,000 before seeking help.
Legal and Illegal Gambling: Many gamblers used both legal and illegal gambling sites. Some turned to illegal sites after being banned or self-excluded from legal platforms.
Weaknesses Highlighted By The Dutch Gaming Authority
One of the most worrying problems found by the Dutch Gaming Authority is the lack of effective intervention by gambling operators:
Lack of Contact: Despite rules requiring operators to intervene, 68% of respondents said they were never personally contacted about their gambling behaviour.
Rare Bans: 83% were never banned from play, even though their gambling showed clear signs of risk.
This suggests that operators are not doing enough to identify and help at-risk players, even when their behaviour clearly shows a problem.
Government’s Response
The Dutch government recognised these gaps and is taking steps to improve player protection:
Raising the Minimum Age: There are plans to increase the minimum age for the most high-risk gambling activities from 18 to 21.
Stricter Rules for Operators: New rules will require operators to have a stronger duty of care, including better monitoring of player behaviour and stricter intervention when risks are detected.
Deposit Limits: A deposit limit will be introduced, with financial checks to prevent players from losing more than they can afford.
Tougher Action Against Illegal Gambling: The regulator will have more power to block illegal websites and take action against those who help illegal gambling providers.
The survey by the Dutch Gaming Authority reveals that many at-risk gamblers are not getting the help they need. Early exposure to gambling, ineffective interventions by operators, and easy access to illegal sites all contribute to the problem. The government is now working on stricter rules and better protections to close these gaps and help those most at risk.
Also Read: Curaçao Extends Green Seal Gambling Licences Until December 2025
