Dutch Regulator Investigates Behavioural Tactics Used By Online Casinos
Dutch gambling authority Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has begun an investigation into the behavioral techniques employed by online casinos in the Netherlands. The regulator is concerned with the potential for behavioral techniques to steer players towards gambling in an exploitive or harmful manner.
In this article, we clarify the players involved, the scope of focus, the timing of the inquiry, in addition to the reason behind it, and the implications it carries for you as a gambler.
Dutch Authorities Step Up Oversight of Online Casinos
The Netherlands Gambling Authority has increased the scope of monitoring for online gambling operators after uncovering a potential issue with behavioral influencer techniques. The KSA has undertaken a study of the behavioral retention strategies employed by gambling operators.
The study shows that online gambling houses combine both incentivized and disincentivized behavioral modification techniques. The incentivized techniques include spend trackers, self-limit setting, and session pausing. Disincentivized strategies include interface designs that promote gambling, like session restarts, simplified high-stakes betting, and several other design features.
Whenever players log into the platforms, some free casino bonuses in The Netherlands are made available. Every one of these bonuses adds money to your account to try the games before downloading, which also helps minimize risks to your own bankroll. Free bonuses will always be advertised with a certain set of requirements that the players must meet to keep playing.
Regulators are supporting the fair play focus of players in order to ensure that these bonuses are not the by-products of exploitative game designs. This ensures that players do not go on a spending spree and start losing their money in the games.
Last year, an analysis from the UK Gambling Commission found that almost one in three players of online casinos across Europe admitted to playing for more time than they should. This is a powerful reminder of why the regulator wants to make certain that operators do not allow free bonuses to help exploit their players. This more thorough examination will check where these suggestions move the boundary between simple playing and a more aggressive form of engagement.
Casinos Face Scrutiny Over Player Targeting Methods
How online casinos monitor and respond to player activities is under the focus of the KSA. Operators track player activities to find the optimal moments and methods to induce further play. There is a balance to be struck within these methods to promote gambling without increasing the chance of harm. Some newer players, for example, are sometimes prompted to quickly place high-stakes bets without grasping the consequences and complexity of the situation.
As a player, it is worth noting how games are marketed. Certain elements, like graphics and interactions, can promote a high and continued engagement. Players lose a certain amount of agency and control over their choices due to factors like default settings.
Evidence from a 2025 study published on Taylor & Francis Online suggests that players who engage with certain design features in online casinos tend to spend more time playing. The research also indicates that over the past two years, the average session length for high-risk players has increased by 22 per cent. Regulators are now reviewing these findings to determine which behavioural techniques are acceptable and which may require stricter oversight to protect players from potential harm.
It is possible the casinos have to modify how they offer games, rewards and bonuses in order to avoid steering players toward harmful behaviours. The KSA has once again pointed out the need to balance business goals against consumer protection.
Regulators Focus on Fair Play and Responsible Gambling
The KSA has a track record of implementing policies designed to safeguard players from gambling harm. For instance, banning the Autoplay feature on slot machines was designed to close systems that encourage continuous play and eliminate player decision-making. They have also targeted influencers and advertising that promote gambling and other ancillary services in violation of licensing terms.
As a player, this means that online gambling operators in the Netherlands have to meet enhanced criteria for fair play. You should see better-defined rules on deposit limits, more player-friendly game designs, and clearer terms on bonuses. The KSA is also assessing how ads are placed to minimise the possibility of exploitative practices towards at-risk users.
A 2025 survey from KSA revealed concerning patterns among Dutch gamblers, showing that many experienced negative effects from gambling, including financial losses and impacts on their social and mental well-being. While the survey did not specify how well players understand bonuses and features, it highlights the need for greater awareness and education. In response, the regulator overseeing online gambling is considering stronger protective measures.
Potential changes could include raising the minimum age, restricting bonus offers, and tightening advertising rules. These measures will benefit players using free casino bonuses in the Netherlands, helping ensure that such offers promote responsible play and reduce the risk of excessive gambling.
Online Gambling Practices Under the Microscope
The investigation on online casinos concentrates on their use of behavioral science techniques on clients. Operators are under scrutiny and are expected to be more transparent in their dealings. This may result in more positive experiences for players with the organisation of games, bonuses, and general gambling incentives.
Kansspelautoriteit has raised concerns about online casinos using strategies that may lead players to gamble more than intended. While exact numbers are unclear, these findings highlight why regulators are scrutinizing bonus structures and player monitoring. Operators may need better systems to encourage responsible play and help players stay within their limits.
There are plans for the KSA to provide additional guidance that will be effective within the next months. Failure to comply may result in the imposition of fines that will be coupled with further restrictions on licenses and other regulatory punitive measures.
The KSA is still investigating the matter, and in the meantime, players within the Netherlands should pay careful attention to the manner in which online casinos influence their gaming habits. Free casino bonuses in the Netherlands are still an enticing marketing tool for players, but be careful to always assess the wagering requirements.
Practice self-control, take a break, set a limit, and don’t forget to stop reducing your limit. This is the best practice when gaming responsibly to avoid overspending or playing for too long.
- B.E. Delmer, Gambling911.com
