Dutch regulator says a solution has been found for the only way minors can access legal online gambling

(AsiaGameHub) –   The KSA states it is “virtually impossible” for underage individuals to access licensed gambling operators.

The Netherlands.- The Dutch gambling authority Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has finalized its inquiry into underage gambling. Its findings indicate that it is virtually impossible for minors to place bets with legal gambling providers.

The regulator noted that when age verification is bypassed, it mainly happens through accounts owned by adult relatives or acquaintances. Nonetheless, it initiated an investigation last year following reports that minors could potentially open accounts with legal online gambling firms.

The research scrutinized the registration process at online gambling providers, paying particular attention to identity and bank account checks. The KSA stated that transaction data obtained from banks enabled a deeper look into possible weaknesses.

The regulator now reports discovering almost no significant irregularities. However, it said that in a very small number of instances, players managed to use another individual’s bank account or connect their own account to a different player’s profile.

The KSA explained this could happen almost only when individuals share exactly the same initials. Talks with online gambling providers showed they initially had no immediate solution , but the KSA now believes a fix is attainable. It plans to convene a technical session with online gaming operators to outline its expectations for the industry on this matter.

The KSA added it will also present its recommendations to online gambling providers at a future time. All directives will be integrated into the regulator’s guidance on Dutch gambling law, the Wwft.

Michel Groothuizen, Chairman of the Board of the Dutch Gaming Authority: “The KSA is profoundly worried about minors gambling. Thankfully, it seems this scarcely happens with licensed providers, yet we still have clear signs it is occurring.

“This is probable on the illicit market. Illegal operators frequently have no or weak age verification standards and market themselves directly to this young audience, for instance on TikTok. This is exceptionally damaging, which is why the KSA is intensifying efforts to tackle the illegal market. We are also increasing our emphasis on educating young people about the dangers of gambling.”

Earlier this week, the KSA instructed Unibet operator Optdeck Service Limited to amend its due diligence procedures after identifying violations of the Netherlands’ Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act (Wwft).