Dutch Gambling Authority Considers Legal Action Against Google and Meta
The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) is working with Google to develop a European whitelist of licensed gambling operators. At the same time, the regulator is considering legal action against technology companies that allow illegal gambling advertising.
On October 14, 2026, KSA chairman Michel Groothuizen revealed that discussions with Google and Meta had led to the creation of a joint task force.
The proposed whitelist would help Google identify licensed gambling operators across the EU and block advertising from companies outside the approved list. However, no launch date has been announced.
Groothuizen also criticized technology companies for earning advertising revenue from unlicensed gambling operators. He raised concerns about illegal gambling ads reaching minors and self-excluded players.
Michel Groothuizen, KSA Chairman, stated:
If agreements with Big Tech yield too little, we will not hesitate to enter the arena against one of them.
The KSA is considering legal action under Dutch legislation and the EU Digital Services Act. However, Groothuizen acknowledged that court proceedings against major technology companies could take up to five years.
According to figures cited by the chairman, around 90% of Dutch online gamblers use only licensed operators, but just 53% of gambling money goes to the legal market.
The regulator is also shifting its enforcement strategy toward restricting illegal operators’ online visibility and disrupting their payment systems.
