Blue High House, the owner of BetOnline.ag, has recently been fined €1.125 million ($1.180 million) by the Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) for offering online gambling in the Netherlands without a proper license. The fine was initially set at €600,000 ($629,000), but after further investigation, the KSA found that Blue High House had violated multiple regulations.
KSA Chairman Michel Groothuizen expressed concerns about the lack of consideration for responsible gaming behavior on illegal gambling websites like BetOnline.ag. He highlighted issues such as the ability for players to create accounts without verifying their age, potentially allowing minors to participate in online gambling. Additionally, features like autoplay and turboplay were identified as potentially encouraging excessive gaming, with no set gaming limits in place.
Despite BetOnline.ag removing the offending offer from its site, the KSA warned that further sanctions could be imposed if the company fails to comply with regulations in the future. This is not the first time that Blue High House has faced regulatory issues with the KSA, as a similar situation occurred about a year ago with the site concreteline.ag. The regulator had ordered the company to remove the site from the Dutch market or face fines of €43,000 ($45,000) per week, up to a maximum of €129,000 ($135,000).
The KSA’s actions against illegal gambling websites like BetOnline.ag demonstrate their commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting consumers from potential harm associated with online gambling. By holding operators accountable for their actions and ensuring compliance with licensing requirements, the KSA aims to create a safer and more responsible online gambling environment in the Netherlands.
In conclusion, Blue High House’s hefty fine serves as a warning to other online gambling operators who may be considering offering services in the Netherlands without the necessary licenses. The KSA’s proactive approach to regulating the online gambling industry reflects their dedication to upholding the integrity of the market and safeguarding players from potential risks. It is crucial for all operators to adhere to regulations and prioritize responsible gaming practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.