The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) has outlined plans to significantly tighten enforcement against illegal gambling in 2026, with a stronger focus on online operators, youth protection, advertising compliance and anti-money laundering controls. The regulator says closer cooperation with licensed operators, payment providers and international counterparts will be central to achieving its goals.

Intensified action against unlicensed operators

Combatting illegal gambling sits at the top of the KSA’s 2026 supervisory agenda. The regulator plans to expand enforcement capacity and target the infrastructure supporting unlicensed platforms, including payment services, hosting providers, affiliates and social media channels.

Online gambling will remain the primary focus, though land-based activity will also be monitored, particularly the movement of slot machines into unlicensed venues. The KSA aims to make illegal platforms less visible, harder to access and less profitable, with a stated target of achieving a 90% online channelisation rate.

Stronger protection for minors and young adults

Protecting vulnerable groups, especially minors and young adults, is another key priority. The KSA is analysing behavioural data from licensed operators to better understand gambling patterns among young adults, which may lead to additional safeguards.

Public awareness efforts will be expanded, including the launch of a new consumer platform, Open About Gambling, offering information on safer gambling and access to support services.

Duty of care and player monitoring under scrutiny

The regulator will increase oversight of how licensed operators meet their duty-of-care obligations. This includes assessing how financial capacity checks are conducted, how risky behaviour is identified, and how interventions are applied.

Implementation of the Cruks self-exclusion scheme and other player protection tools will remain under close review, with further guidance expected.

Advertising rules face tougher enforcement

Advertising compliance will receive renewed attention, particularly the ban on using celebrities, influencers or other role models in gambling promotions. The KSA will also act against untargeted advertising that risks reaching minors or young adults.

Updated guidance on gambling advertising is expected in early 2026, with operators required to avoid platforms that disproportionately attract vulnerable audiences.

Expanded AML supervision from 2026

The KSA will also strengthen supervision under Dutch anti-money laundering laws and prepare for new EU AML rules taking effect in 2026. Oversight will remain data-driven and risk-based, covering customer due diligence, transaction monitoring and reporting obligations.

The regulator says its expanded mandate will require closer engagement with operators as financial sanctions, cash limits and reporting standards evolve.

Sources: iGaming Business, iGaming Express