Dutch Regulator Issues Record €24.8M Fine Against Illegal Gambling Operator

The Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa) has issued two significant fines against illegal gambling operators targeting the Dutch market, including a record-breaking €24.8 million penalty against Novatech.

The ViolationsFortaprime SRL operated eight illegal gambling websites including amonbet101.com, supraplay.com, kaasino.com, and luckymax7.com, receiving a €1,795,000 fine. Novatech ran Qbet.com and 55Bet.com, earning the €24,846,000 penalty—the highest the Ksa has ever imposed on an illegal operator.

Both companies had previously received orders subject to penalty payments. Ksa investigators were able to create player accounts, make deposits, and participate in illegal gambling on these sites, confirming no technical measures were in place to block Dutch players.

Aggravating FactorsThe regulator identified several compliance failures that increased the penalties:

No visible age verification systemsAcceptance of cryptocurrency paymentsAnonymous payment methods facilitating potential money launderingRevenue-Based CalculationThe Ksa opted for revenue-based fines after determining standard penalties would be disproportionate to the operators' Dutch earnings. However, Ksa Chairman Michel Groothuizen noted frustration with legal limitations.

"Novatech earned hundreds of millions from its illegal offering, primarily from Dutch players. A €24 million fine sounds impressive, but without the 10% worldwide revenue cap, the fine would have exceeded €100 million—an amount more fitting for this violation," Groothuizen stated.

Broader EnforcementThe regulator emphasized its multi-pronged approach against illegal gambling, collaborating with payment service providers, hosting companies, banks, and major tech firms. The Ksa also warned that Dutch influencers who promoted Fortaprime's offerings face potential sanctions.