An investigation by Dutch broadcaster BNR found that illegal online casinos are using Meta platforms to target vulnerable individuals, including people signed up to the national self-exclusion register Cruks. The broadcaster noted that Meta is potentially earning millions from this unlawful practice.
According to BNR, at least hundreds of advertisements were visible on Meta platforms in late 2025 and the first half of 2026. Ad visibility varied from several views to tens of thousands.
Most of them are AI-generated videos and target self-excluded individuals by portraying the register as a ‘freedom restriction’ tool. This is often followed by a call to action to use illegal alternatives.
BNR outlined the script of one such video, which goes as follows: ‘an enraged AI man claims that the government wants total control over citizens gambling behaviour. The solution? Gambling at illegal online casinos.’
These ads also frequently offer high bonuses, while operators accept alternative payment methods from those under oversight.When asked, Meta declined to reveal to BNR how much money it makes from such advertisements.
Meanwhile, the Dutch Responsible Affiliates Quality Mark (KVA), in collaboration with the Association of Online Gambling Providers (VNLOK), previously published an analysis estimating that the social media giant earns between €7.3m ($8.5m) and €13.6m annually from such ads targeting Dutch users.
Following inquiries from BNR, Meta removed numerous advertisements from its ad library. Additionally, the tech company stated in a written response that it ‘takes enforcement seriously’ and that advertisers must comply with applicable laws and regulations. Meta has also banned the two Facebook accounts.
The Dutch Gaming Authority (Ksa) has been monitoring illegal gambling advertisements on Meta since the online gambling market was legalised in October 2021.The Ksa relies on Meta to remove reported ads but says the platform’s current enforcement is insufficient, with only a portion of illegal advertisements being removed.
In June, a KVA study found that websites targeting searches such as “Casino without Cruks” attract more than 1.6 million monthly visits from the Netherlands
