Dutch online gambling operators affiliated with VNLOK can directly connect players with OpenOverGokken support workers from 1 September, introducing a new intervention mechanism days before gambling policy returns to the Tweede Kamer.
Under agreements between the operators and Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa), the Dutch regulator, players who consent can be transferred to an OpenOverGokken counsellor during an operator intervention. Previously, operators generally provided contact details and left players to approach the service themselves.
No gambling or personal data will be transferred and the parties will evaluate the system after six months. Nederlandse Loterij initiated the arrangement with VNLOK and will use it for TOTO customers alongside referrals to financial support service Geldfit.
The change comes before the Tweede Kamer's Justice and Security Committee discusses gambling policy on 3 September.
The meeting follows a June policy package from the Dutch Government proposing a ban on online gambling advertising and bonuses, an overarching deposit limit and additional enforcement powers against illegal operators.
Calls for tighter gambling restrictions ahead of Tweede Kamer debate
Ahead of the debate, the National Rapporteur on Addictions, Verslavingskunde Nederland and de Nederlandse ggz have called for wider measures covering gambling products. Their proposals include a complete advertising ban comparable with tobacco restrictions, raising the gambling age to 21 and establishing a binding duty-of-care framework for operators.
The Government had previously proposed raising the minimum age for higher-risk gambling to 21 but said in June that it would not proceed with the measure at present. It cited uncertainty over its effectiveness and the possibility of pushing younger players towards unlicensed operators.
VNLOK has similarly argued against generic restrictions, instead proposing risk-based measures including cross-operator risk detection, stronger protections for Cruks-registered players and fixed limits for customers aged up to 23.
Illegal gambling remains a significant factor in that debate. Ksa's spring 2026 monitoring found that around 91% of gamblers used only licensed operators, while the regulated market represented approximately 53% of gambling spend.
The regulator has warned that losses can be concentrated disproportionately among players using unlicensed sites, where Dutch player-protection rules do not apply.
Earlier this year, VNLOK's first Responsible Gambling Monitor reported more than 1.2 million behavioural notifications during 2025, alongside 75,391 affordability checks and 10,847 instances where players were advised to seek professional assistance.
OpenOverGokken provides gambling support around the clock through telephone, chat and WhatsApp services
