Norwegian Authority Warns Individuals Over World Cup Promotion of Offshore Operators

The Norwegian Gambling Authority, Lotteritilsynet, is actively cracking down on the promotion of unlicensed gambling. Recently, it sent warning letters to private individuals. These individuals had used World Cup content to link to gambling sites of foreign providers.

Norway pursues a restrictive gambling policy. Only two state-owned providers are allowed there: Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto. A strict marketing ban applies to all other providers. Lotteritilsynet aims to ensure consumer protection and maintain a high channeling rate. The current warnings are directed at individual actors and show a new level of enforcement. Those who promote unauthorized gambling offers must expect consequences. The authority plans to introduce DNS blocking in 2025.

Numbers and facts

Lotteritilsynet has further intensified its measures against unauthorized gambling in the country. Private individuals who used World Cup content to link to offshore betting sites have now received official warning letters. The authority plans to introduce DNS blocking (Domain Name System Blocking) for websites of international gambling providers without a license for the Norwegian market starting in 2025. The goal is to prevent access to these sites by instructing internet service providers to block access and instead display a message that the site is unavailable in Norway.

As early as autumn 2024, the Gambling Authority began informing companies about the upcoming DNS blocking. Companies had the option to voluntarily withdraw from the Norwegian market. If they choose not to, the authority intends to issue formal orders and oblige ISPs to block the relevant websites. The first DNS blocks are to be implemented in spring 2025. It is clarified that merely changing the website language to English is not sufficient to be considered not targeting Norway. Attempting to circumvent payment ban rules is also considered an indication that an offer is targeting the Norwegian market.

"If a website offers gambling aimed at the Norwegian market without a permit, the Norwegian Gaming Authority may order internet service providers to implement DNS-blocking of the website." – Excerpt from the Gambling Act, Norway

Background

Norway operates a state gambling monopoly. It only allows Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto to offer gambling. The country has long relied on strict controls and measures to protect players from the risks of unregulated gambling. This also includes the so-called "payment transaction ban," which requires Norwegian banks to block payments to foreign gambling providers. The current steps taken by Lotteritilsynet are a direct continuation of this resolute policy. They show that the authority is willing to go new ways to enforce its laws and also hold private individuals accountable for promoting unlicensed sites. DNS blocking is another sharp sword in the fight against illegal online gambling.

Why it matters for German players

For German players, these Norwegian developments are primarily a warning signal and a glimpse into the future. While Norway operates a state monopoly, Germany has established a regulated market with the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). However, the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) also vigorously pursues unlicensed providers. It wants to direct players to the GGL whitelist. There, all legal and safe online gaming halls and sports betting providers with a German license can be found.

German players benefit from comprehensive player protection. This includes a monthly deposit limit of 1,000 euros, a stake limit of 1 euro per spin on slot machines, and the central exclusion system LUGAS. LUGAS ensures that limits are adhered to across all channels. Even if there are no DNS blocks for websites targeting private individuals in Germany, the Norwegian measures show how seriously European governments take the fight against unauthorized gambling offers. Playing with an unlicensed provider in Germany not only jeopardizes winning payouts but also deliberately circumvents player protection measures.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For operators of GGL-licensed casinos in Germany, the Norwegian development confirms the chosen path. The strict licensing requirements in Germany, which control compliance with the 1-euro stake limit per spin and the 1,000-euro deposit limit per month, among other things, are essential. The GGL ensures compliance with these requirements with instruments such as LUGAS and protects players from uncontrolled gambling behavior. These measures strengthen trust in the regulated market and clearly distinguish it from illegal providers, as they are being combated in Norway. The GGL in Germany also relies on consistent penalties for advertising violations and acts against unlicensed offers to fulfill the channeling mandate of the GlüStV 2021.