Clone Domain Crackdown: Dutch KSA Shuts Down 86 Illegal Gambling Sites

The Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA) has intensified its battle against the illegal gambling market by targeting a sophisticated method of deception: clone domains. Unlicensed operators have been increasingly using these fraudulent sites to exploit the trust consumers place in licensed brands. These illegal actors create websites that look identical to official platforms but operate under slightly modified URLs to bypass local restrictions and lure players into unregulated environments.

A primary focus of this recent crackdown is the misuse of the .co.nl domain extension. The KSA discovered that unlicensed operators were appending this extension to the names of legitimate license holders, who typically use the official .nl extension in the Netherlands. Once a user visits these fake sites, they are immediately redirected to illegal gambling platforms. To combat this, the regulator has established a close cooperation with the registry operator of the .co.nl extension to ensure rapid takedowns.

Numbers and facts

The scale of the KSA's intervention is significant. So far, the regulator has shut down a total of 86 such fraudulent operators. In a recent wave of enforcement, 26 websites were targeted, almost all of which were direct copies of websites belonging to official license holders. Speed has been a critical factor, with the KSA reporting that these sites were closed down within 48 hours of detection. This proactive stance comes at a time when all eight original operators from the 2021 market opening have successfully renewed their licenses, including brands like Entain’s BetCity, Holland Casino Online, Kansino, and bet365.

Looking ahead, the KSA is broadening its scope. According to its regulatory agenda for 2026, the authority plans to oversee the entire ecosystem supporting the illegal market. This includes not only the operators themselves but also B2B software suppliers, hosting companies, social media platforms, and payment providers. The goal is to make illegal gambling effectively inaccessible rather than relying solely on fines after the fact.

Background

The role of advertising remains a contentious issue in the Dutch market. While the House of Representatives recently rejected a blanket ban on gambling ads, the KSA maintains that advertising is essential for directing consumers toward legal options. However, the regulator is strictly cracking down on media outlets and marketing agencies that promote illegal sites, particularly those targeting players who have self-excluded via the national Cruks register.

"The KSA continues to receive numerous reports of news articles that entice consumers to gamble at casinos without Cruks. Active promotion targeting this vulnerable group is therefore extremely harmful." - Official Statement, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA)

To strengthen its enforcement, the KSA is collaborating with the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) and the Dutch Advertising Code Foundation (SRC). The aim is to hold the entire marketing supply chain accountable. This mirrors trends in other jurisdictions, such as the UK, where the Gambling Commission has called out social media giants like Meta for allowing illegal gambling advertisements to reach vulnerable audiences.

Why it matters for German players

For players in Germany, the Dutch situation serves as a clear warning about the risks of unregulated sites. Similar clone tactics are used to bypass the German Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). German players should only use platforms listed on the official GGL whitelist to ensure they are protected by legal safeguards, such as the 1,000 Euro monthly deposit limit and the 1 Euro per spin cap on slots. Illegal clones do not connect to systems like LUGAS or OASIS, leaving players without protection against gambling addiction and financial loss.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

Licensed GGL casinos must be vigilant in protecting their brand identity from being cloned. When illegal operators steal a licensed brand's design and name, it damages the reputation of the entire legal industry. German operators must work closely with the GGL to report domain misuse. The GGL has the authority to use IP blocking and payment blocking to remove these illegal competitors. For licensed casinos, this means maintaining high security standards and transparent communication to help players distinguish between legitimate services and fraudulent clones.