The Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, or Ksa) has announced a tougher approach to influencers who use social media to advertise illegal gambling platforms. This move underscores the regulator’s commitment to protecting young audiences and maintaining the integrity of the legal gambling market.

Growing Concerns Over Gambling Promotion on Social Media

In recent months, the Ksa has received a rising number of reports about influencers who publish videos and livestreams showing themselves gambling with unlicensed operators. These activities frequently target minors and young adults on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

According to the Ksa, this content is especially harmful because it blurs the line between entertainment and advertising, potentially leading vulnerable viewers toward illegal gambling websites.

Related: Learn more about legal online gambling in the Netherlands

Penalty Order Against Influencer LeftlanePapi

One of the most notable cases involves the influencer LeftlanePapi. On his YouTube channel, he not only streamed illegal gambling sessions but also actively encouraged viewers to sign up and play.

After issuing a formal warning requiring the removal of this content within 48 hours, the Ksa discovered that the videos remained online and that new material was still being published. As a result, the regulator imposed a penalty order demanding all infringing content be removed immediately.

If LeftlanePapi fails to comply, he faces a fine of €25,000 per violation, up to a maximum of €75,000.

External resource: Read the official Ksa statement

Two-Track Enforcement Strategy

This enforcement action is part of a broader two-track policy:

Warning and Opportunity to Comply – Influencers first receive notice to delete illegal content within 48 hours.
Escalation – If no action is taken, the Ksa contacts the social media platform to have the material removed and imposes financial penalties on the influencer.
Several other influencers have already been warned under this policy.

Protecting Young Consumers
By stepping up supervision and sanctions, the Ksa aims to protect consumers—especially young people—from the risks of illegal gambling. This approach also helps ensure that legal operators who meet strict licensing requirements are not undermined by unregulated competitors.

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