Holland Casino at Risk of Regulatory Action over iGaming Database Issues

Summary:

• The KSA said Holland Casino failed to address database issues that is ongoing since 2021
• Dutch online gambling operators are required to use a control database to store data on gambling activities
• The operator must fix the issues within six weeks or face regulatory action

Dutch state-owned gambling operator Holland Casino could face regulatory action over unresolved issues regarding its online gaming control database (CDB). The issues date back to 2021 when the country launched its regulated online gambling market.

Holland Casino obtained an iGaming license ahead of the launch but was later flagged by Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) for non-compliance with CDB requirements.

Holland Casino has been operating in the Netherlands since 1976. Holding a monopoly on Dutch land-based gambling, the European casino operator currently owns 14 gambling venues across the country.

CDB Issues Date Back to 2021

The KSA initially uncovered the issues in December 2021 when Holland Casino provided incorrect data on its CDB. Additionally, the system was not up-to-date. The regulator ordered the company to promptly fix the issues to avoid further problems.

In February 2022, the KSA identified new issues with the CDB, despite Holland Casino declaring that the problems had been addressed and the system was working as it should.

The KSA scheduled another testing to ensure the CDB met the requirements but it was repeatedly delayed. When the tests were finally conducted later in the year, the KSA found that the upgrades made by Holland Casino had failed to address certain issues previously identified by the regulator.

Holland Casino was given more time to work things out, with the KSA carrying out further tests in January and May 2023. However, the regulator determined that the CDB is still not fully compliant. As a result, the KSA made a binding decision in June to grant the operator six weeks to deal with the issues.

The six-week period was suspended after Holland Casino requested a provisional injunction. On November 16, the District Court of The Hague dismissed the request, which means the six-week period will now proceed.

Holland Casino Could Have iGaming License Revoked

While Holland Casino insists that it has already made the necessary upgrades to bring its CDB into line with the rules, it will be forced to re-examine the system and implement further updates in compliance with KSA’s orders. Otherwise, it will be subject to regulatory action, which could include an administrative fine, a penalty, or iGaming license revocation.