KSA introduces an enhanced self-exclusion program

The Dutch gambling regulatory body, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has unveiled an upgraded version of Cruks, the national self-exclusion program in the country.

The revamped self-exclusion platform aims to simplify the process for consumers to temporarily exclude themselves from gambling activities, while still maintaining a minimum exclusion period of six months for players.

The updated version of Cruks, the national self-exclusion program in the Netherlands, now includes an eight-day “reflection” period for players who wish to resume gambling after their exclusion period. This additional waiting period, implemented by KSA, aims to discourage impulsive re-subscription to Cruks.

Furthermore, KSA has made changes to the language used in Cruks, replacing the term “Play Break” with “Gambling Stop” based on research that indicated the former term did not fully convey the program’s scope.

Cruks was launched in October 2021 to coincide with the legalization of the country’s online gambling market, and it applies to arcades, casinos, and online games of chance. Licensed operators in the Netherlands are required to integrate with Cruks and regularly check the list to ensure that their customers, both existing and new, have not registered for self-exclusion.

Since its launch, over 38,000 players in the Netherlands have signed up for the Cruks self-exclusion scheme.

Ban on Advertising in the Netherlands

The update to Cruks comes in response to the recent announcement by the Dutch Minister for Legal Protection, Franc Weerwind, regarding a nationwide ban on untargeted gambling advertising starting from 1 July.

As of that date, all television and radio commercials, as well as billboards and ads in public spaces, will be prohibited. However, advertising on the internet and on-demand television will be allowed, but with strict conditions.

Internet advertising, including social media and targeted ads, will only be permitted if operators can actively prevent these ads from reaching individuals under the age of 24, as targeted ads to this age group are illegal in the Netherlands. Operators must also demonstrate that at least 95% of their advertising reaches individuals who are 24 years or older, and consumers must have the option to indicate that they do not wish to see these ads.