The Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) has sanctioned 711 BV, an online gambling operator, for breaching regulations prohibiting the use of role models in gambling advertising.
The violation involved 711's collaboration with an influencer who has significant appeal among young audiences, particularly through streaming popular video games.
The influencer also holds a social role that involves regular contact with minors, making the partnership a clear breach of Dutch gambling advertising rules.
The role model ban, which applies to online gambling providers, prohibits the use of professional athletes, actors, models and influencers in promotional activities - regulations that are designed to protect vulnerable groups, including young people and individuals experiencing or at risk of problem gambling.
The KSA has subsequently instructed 711 to remove all promotional content featuring the influencer, including any appearances in video materials. The operator has confirmed that the collaboration has ended and that removal of the content is underway.
In addition to the role model violation, KSA addressed a separate compliance issue involving tournaments offered by 711. Players were automatically entered into these tournaments without explicit registration or agreement to bonus terms, potentially encouraging inappropriate gaming behaviour. The operator has confirmed it has discontinued this practice.
The enforcement action comes as the Dutch gambling market faces ongoing regulatory challenges. Earlier this month, KSA issued a compliance warning to Tulipa regarding deficiencies in customer due diligence and anti-money laundering reporting obligations.
Recent market data shows the land-based casino sector declined by €61m ($70m) in 2024 and remains 27% below pre-pandemic level
