Dutch Association of Online Gambling Providers (VNLOK) has summoned Meta to court over the latter's dissemination of illegal gambling ads on Facebook and Instagram.
VNLOK has asked the Amsterdam District Court to rule that Meta is not meeting its obligations under the European Digital Services Act (DSA), and to require Meta to take stronger action to prevent illegal gambling advertisements targeted at Dutch citizens.
According to the association, its continual investigations show that more than 90% of the gambling advertisements examined on Facebook originated from illegal gambling sites. VNLOK notes that because illegal advertisements often remain online only briefly, removing them retroactively is often too late.
Industry analysis estimates Meta earns millions from illegal gambling ads
In May, the Dutch Responsible Affiliates Quality Mark (KVA), in collaboration with the VNLOK, published an analysis estimating that the social media giant earns between €7.3m and €13.6m annually from such ads targeting Dutch users.
Meanwhile, an investigation by Dutch broadcaster BNR, unveiled in August, found hundreds of illegal gambling ads on Meta networks in late 2025 and the first half of 2026, with some receiving tens of thousands of views.
Dutch MPs push for greater platform responsibility
A recent motion by three Dutch MPs calls for legislation establishing that online platforms such as Meta are themselves in violation when illegal gambling advertisements remain visible after repeated reports.
They proposed that the Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) should be granted powers to impose a fine or an order subject to a penalty payment.
VNLOK also urged KSA to take stronger action against illegal online gambling using current laws, without waiting for new regulations.
This comes as during the recent parliamentary debate on gambling, the fight against illegal operators received broad support.
Complaints about illegal gambling sites and payout problems are rising
VNLOK reported a sharp increase in complaints about illegal online gambling sites. Payout problems are a particular issue. Apparently, the proportion of reports regarding payout problems has nearly doubled in recent months.
This data comes from the Dutch reporting platform focused on illegal online gambling, Meld Vals Spel, launched in 2024 by VNLOK.
Tomorrow, the House of Representatives will vote on a motion that would give the KSA powers to fine online platforms such as Meta for failing to take sufficient action against illegal gambling ads
