Dutch regulator proposes new player protection rules

The KSA has begun a consultation on proposals for compulsory risk analysis and a ban on time-limited bonuses.

The Netherlands.- The regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has begun a consultation on new player protection rules that will mean operators must carry out an independent risk analysis on all games.

These must clearly identify a game’s risk factors based on scientific analysis. This includes providing game information such as jackpot sizes, return-to-player rates, volatility, visual design and level of accessibility.

The rules also include a ban on any kind of bonus that has a time limit, such as “happy hours” or bonuses advertised as being valid for one day only. The ban aims to reduce impulsive play.

The new measures also include new rules for marketing messages that clarify that advertising must not “suggest financial benefit or an increase in social acceptance or happiness” resulting from gambling.

They must not suggest gambling can be a solution to financial problems, nor downplay its negative consequences, and must not suggest a player can have any impact on the results of games of chance or in any way improve their results.

Ads must also avoid targeting young or vulnerable people, both directly and via placement on programming, channels or websites intended for younger audiences.

With Holland’s regulated igaming market due to launch next year, the rules also state that licensees must not use their licensed status as an advertising tool other than to make “the neutral statement that a license holder has a permit under the law”.

Operators’ responsibilities to intervene to protect player safety are also outlined in the new rules.

Operators will be obliged to intervene if a player “can no longer bear the financial consequences of his gaming behaviour; [is] excessively trying to recoup his losses; [or] …shows negative social or societal consequences”.

Such consequences may include factors such as loss of employment, an application for debt restructuring or request for addiction treatment.

Stakeholders have until November 9 to respond to the consultation.