Dutch Regulator Orders Operators to Remove 'Share Your Bet' Features Immediately

The Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa) has issued an urgent call for all online gambling operators to cease offering 'Share your bet' functionality with immediate effect. The Dutch regulator launched an investigation into the feature following multiple market signals and inquiries.

How the Feature WorksThe 'Share your bet' function allows players to share their placed wagers via social media platforms and messaging apps including WhatsApp, Facebook, and email. Recipients can view the bet directly and, if they hold an account with the operator, participate themselves.

Regulatory ConcernsThe Ksa has determined that bet-sharing functionality constitutes a form of advertising and promotional activity. While operators use it to indirectly promote gambling through their existing players, the feature violates Dutch advertising regulations in a critical way.

Under the Decree on Recruitment, Advertising and Addiction Prevention for Games of Chance, operators must ensure advertising does not reach vulnerable groups including:

MinorsYoung adultsProblem gamblersBecause players control who receives their shared bets, operators cannot guarantee vulnerable individuals are protected from exposure to gambling advertising. This lack of control makes the feature non-compliant with Dutch law.

Normalisation RiskThe regulator also highlighted concerns that easy bet-sharing normalises gambling behaviour and lowers participation barriers, particularly among younger demographics.

Enforcement WarningThe Ksa has stated it will continue monitoring developments in this area and will take enforcement action where necessary to protect vulnerable groups. Operators currently offering this functionality should disable it immediately to avoid potential regulatory consequences.