Responsible Gambling in the Netherlands: 2024 Safe Online Gambling Guide
By John Isaac,Editor at online-gambling.com
John Isaac
Editor at online-gambling.com
Overview of Responsible Online Gambling in the Netherlands
Responsible online gambling in the Netherlands is a topic taken seriously both by the country’s government and Dutch gambling operators. Therefore, the regulations the Kansspelautoriteit has put in place to ensure the prevention of problem gambling are strict. However, many would also say they are fair, as they protect the public interest.
In addition, the Ksa oversees the practices of online and offline casinos rigorously, so it’s evident that players’ safety is a priority. All local casinos and online operators that want to attract Dutch players need to comply with the rules set in the Netherlands and commit to promoting responsible gambling.
Nevertheless, the player also has a responsibility to choose licensed gambling sites in the Netherlands. In addition, you should be aware of the best safety practices and use the available responsible gambling tools. So, keep reading to discover the most popular Dutch responsible gambling organisations and what you can do to protect yourself.
Responsible Gambling Tips for Dutch Players
For some gamblers, online casinos are just a way to have a little fun. However, for NL players struggling with maintaining healthy gambling habits, the risk is much more significant. In those scenarios, following a strict Dutch responsible gambling guide is one of the main ways to minimise the negative impact online casino games and betting can have.
Furthermore, adhering to specific guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of developing a gambling addiction. From setting limits on time and money spent to seeking support, there are many ways to protect your mental and financial health. Below you can examine some of the best tips and practices for responsible gambling we could find:
- Manage Budget Effectively – Set a budget corresponding to your financial state and stick to it when gambling by keeping track of your spending.
- Avoid Investing Considerable Amount of Time – Limit the time you spend gambling online and maintain a healthy life balance by engaging in other activities and hobbies.
- Consider Self-Exclusion Options – If needed, use the self-exclusion tools and programmes available online to ban yourself from gambling for a certain time voluntarily.
- Avoid Situations with High Risk – If you have difficulties controlling your spending, stay away from high-stakes games. Avoid high-roller casinos that have high deposit limits to prevent big financial losses.
- Find Alternative Hobbies – Find activities that you might enjoy. Engaging in diverse hobbies like sports and music might help you reduce the focus you put on gambling.
- Start a Conversation – Share your struggles with people that care about you. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals by starting a conversation about your gambling concerns.
Pay attention to these responsible gambling tips even if you haven’t noticed any negative patterns. Online and offline casinos, even when licensed and strictly regulated, can put you in unexpected situations that, over time, may force you to develop unhealthy habits. So, be honest with yourself and check if you already follow these guidelines.
Gambling Addiction Symptoms & Identifiers
No matter how strict the Dutch gambling restrictions are, playing at online and offline casinos will always carry a certain amount of danger. Even the most trusted and reputable operators offer games of chance that carry an inherent risk. Of course, picking a licensed gambling site minimises the chances of developing a gambling addiction, but you should remain vigilant.
Anyone can be affected by problem gambling, and if you’re not careful, you might put yourself in unpleasant situations that can have lasting effects on your mental health. Problem gambling can lead to psychological, financial and interpersonal and other issues, which have been examined in more detail below:
- Borrow money to fund gambling activities.
- Make-up lies about your gambling urges & practices.
- Amass significant debts due to gambling spending.
- Use gambling as an escape from real-life problems and situations.
- Lose or threaten to lose a job, a loved one, or a family member or support.
- Prioritise gambling above all else in your personal and professional life.
- Feel depressed, saddened, or angry when not gambling.
These are only a few notable examples of behaviours that can serve as red flags. So, if you haven’t already, now is the time to adapt your habits to include more responsible practices. And if you are not sure whether you can trust your judgement, the Gamblers Anonymous 20-question quiz could help you.
Who Can Help Me with My Gambling Problem?
There are several responsible gambling organisations in the Netherlands that can help players who struggle with impulse control when playing casino games. Some focus on providing one-on-one therapy, while others organise group counselling for Dutch players. So, there are several ways to approach the issue.
In addition, some organisations can help you detach from gambling activities entirely. Therefore, if needed, you can decide exactly how much support you need based on the severity of the issues you’re facing. The following sections have provided more information about the local help resources in the Netherlands.
Kansspelautoriteit
The Ksa is the leading regulatory authority in the Netherlands responsible for overseeing various forms of gambling. It aims to ensure Dutch players’ safety and licensed gambling operators’ integrity.
| Name of Organisation | Kansspelautoriteit |
|---|---|
| Address | Anna van Buerenplein 45A, 2595 DA Den Haag, Netherlands |
| Tel. Number/Hotline | 070 302 13 00 |
| info@kansspelautoriteit.nl | |
| Website | https://kansspelautoriteit.nl/ |
| Core Tasks | Yes |
| Support Groups | Enforcing compliance with gambling laws & issuing licences |
| Meetings | No |
The Netherlands Gambling Authority, or in Dutch – the Kansspelautoriteit, protects players by implementing various regulations. From managing the general helpline at 070 302 13 00 to placing advertising restrictions for NL online casinos – all these measures can mitigate the negative consequences of gambling.
AGOG Foundation
AGOG, which stands for Anonieme Gokkers Omgeving Gokkers, is a non-profit organisation based in the Netherlands. This Dutch support agency provides assistance to players struggling with problem gambling or gambling addiction.
| Name of Organisation | Stichting AGOG Nederland |
|---|---|
| Address | Pieter Calandlaan 317 – 319 1068NH Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Tel. Number/Hotline | 0800 22 777 22
020-4100517 |
| info@agog.nl | |
| Website | https://www.agog.nl/ |
| Core Tasks | Offering counseling for people struggling with gambling addiction |
| Support Groups | Yes |
| Meetings | Yes |
The organisation’s leading goal is to offer a platform for Dutch players to share their experiences, concerns and challenges related to gambling addiction. AGOG operates on the principles of anonymity, confidentiality, and mutual support. It also organises events to raise awareness of the adverse effects of gambling.
Cruks
The Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen or Cruks is a central register implemented by the Kansspelautoriteit. It is an exclusion system designed for Dutch gamblers who wish or are legally obliged to refrain from gambling.
| Name of Organisation | Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen |
|---|---|
| Address | Anna van Buerenplein 45A, 2595 DA Den Haag, Netherlands |
| Tel. Number/Hotline | 070 302 13 00
0800 24 000 22 |
| info@kansspelautoriteit.nl | |
| Website | https://cruksregister.nl/ |
| Core Tasks | Exclusion of individuals from gambling – voluntarily or compulsory |
| Support Groups | Yes |
| Meetings | Yes |
The way Cruks works is by allowing Dutch players to voluntarily register themselves in the database, which blocks their access to licensed online gambling platforms. This is one of the most effective tools for ensuring responsible gambling in the Netherlands, as it completely isolates vulnerable individuals from their addiction for at least six months.
Jellinek
Jellinek is a popular NL responsible online gambling organisation focusing on addiction prevention, treatment, and research. It also deals with substance abuse, so it can provide comprehensive support to Dutch citizens dealing with addiction-related issues.
| Name of Organisation | Jellinek |
|---|---|
| Address | Jacob Obrechtstraat 92, 1071 KR Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Tel. Number/Hotline | +31 88 505 1220 |
| contact@jellinek.nl | |
| Website | https://www.jellinek.nl/ |
| Core Tasks | Providing therapy to individuals struggling with gambling problems |
| Support Groups | Yes |
| Meetings | Yes |
This is more than a responsible gambling organisation, as Jellinek offers a wide range of services for various addictions. From prevention and early intervention to treatment and aftercare, this non-profit addresses all stages of addiction. In addition, it works closely with healthcare organisations, addiction professionals, and community stakeholders to form a widespread support network.
Tactus
Tactus is another renowned Dutch organisation that focuses on addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery. Similarly to Jellinek, it provides various services to individuals dealing with substance abuse and addiction-related issues, including problem gambling.
| Name of Organisation | Tactus Verslavingszorg |
|---|---|
| Address | Keulenstraat 3 7418 ET Deventer, Nederland |
| Tel. Number/Hotline | 088 382 28 87 |
| vragen@tactus.nl | |
| Website | https://www.tactus.nl/ |
| Core Tasks | Offering treatment to help individuals overcome gambling problems |
| Support Groups | Yes |
| Meetings | Yes |
The main difference between Tactus and Jellinek is that this non-profit organisation primarily operates in the northeast of the Netherlands. The healthcare professionals working there also take a highly personalised approach to treatments and address the unique needs of each individual. Of course, support groups are also available, but private treatments are prioritised.
Loket Kansspel
Unlike Jellinek and Tactus, which focus on various addictions, Loket Kansspel is concentrated exclusively on gambling addiction. It is also known for helping people who have relatives or friends struggling with excessive gambling.
| Name of Organisation | Loket Kansspel |
|---|---|
| Address | Pieter Calandlaan 317-319 1068 NH Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Tel. Number/Hotline | 0800 24 000 22 |
| info@loketkansspel.nl | |
| Website | https://www.loketkansspel.nl/ |
| Core Tasks | Providing information on responsible gambling practices and regulations |
| Support Groups | Yes |
| Meetings | Yes |
Many younger Dutch players also struggle with gambling addiction, and it seems like Loket Kansspel is trying to help this demographic. The organisation has introduced some innovative ways to provide help to the community, such as a podcast. Furthermore, it offers support via WhatsApp, demonstrating its modern support approach.
Resources for Safe Online Gambling in the Netherlands
We’ve shared several responsible gambling tips with you. However, if you already struggle with problem gambling, you can receive proper help by contacting organisations that specialise in treating addiction. As you now know, there are several agencies in the Netherlands that you can turn to for help by visiting the following websites:
| Organisation | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Stichting AGOG Nederland | 0800 22 777 22
020-4100517 |
| Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen (Cruks) | 0800 24 000 22
070 302 13 00 |
| Jellinek | +31 88 505 1220 |
| Tactus Verslavingszorg | 088 382 28 87 |
| Loket Kansspel | 0800 24 000 22
020 689 82 47 |
As we mentioned, all these organisations offer groups, calls, meetings or one-on-one consultations, so you should be able to find a form of therapy that works for you. Just don’t hesitate to reach out because you fear being judged. You’re dealing with professionals who understand the issue you’re facing.
Responsible Online Gambling Online & Offline
You can take measures to prevent negative gaming habits from developing into a more severe issue like gambling addiction. However, to succeed in this endeavour, you should be 100% honest with yourself. After all, you can’t address a problem you won’t recognise you have, and you won’t be able to take preventive measures if you don’t acknowledge the risks.
Luckily, responsible online gambling in the Netherlands is a topic that is frequently discussed, so most players should be aware that self-limiting tools are available. From deposit and spending limits to timeout tools, the most effective measures you can take have been discussed in detail below.
Measures & Precautions at Online Casinos in the NL
Licensed gambling sites in the Netherlands are obliged to provide several tools for responsible gambling. As a result, Dutch players have everything they need to control their gambling habits. You can review most of them below, but remember that if you suffer from compulsive gambling, you may still need external help.
- Self-Exclusion – You can voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling activities and receive the needed support to overcome addiction by enrolling in databases like Cruks.
- Deposit Limitations – You can control your spending with the tools provided by online casinos and set restrictions on the amount of money you can deposit.
- Time Management – Set time limits to prevent excessive gambling or use the tools available online to allocate specific time slots for gambling.
- Spending or Loss Limits – Consult your budget and set limits on how much you can spend or lose while gambling. This can help you avoid financial risks.
- Contact Customer Support – If you can’t find the needed restriction tools or have concerns about your gambling experience, contact the online casino’s customer support.
- Get in Touch with a Responsible Gambling Partner – Get help by contacting the responsible gambling partner of your chosen online casino. These organisations can provide advice and assistance in overcoming gambling-related problems.
If you would like to maintain healthy gambling habits, use the tools that allow you to put limitations on the time and money you spend at online casinos. However, that might not be enough if you already struggle with gambling addiction. Contacting a responsible gambling organisation or entering the Cruks database might be better if that’s the case.
Responsible Gambling Policies at Land-Based Casinos
As discussed, there are many responsible gambling tools available online. However, you also need to be able to protect yourself at land-based casinos. Fortunately, Dutch casinos are required to develop a comprehensive responsible gambling plan to obtain their licence. As a result, legit gambling establishments provide deposit, betting and credit limits and plenty of information on the topic.
- Training of Employees – Land-based casino employees are knowledgeable about responsible gambling practices and trained to assist customers who may exhibit signs of problem gambling.
- Signage – Most casinos in the Netherlands have signs and posters with information on responsible gambling, including helpline numbers and resources, available around their gambling halls.
- Advertising Limits – There are advertising guidelines that land-based casinos have to adhere to. Most commonly, they prohibit excessive or misleading marketing that may target vulnerable individuals.
- Limits on Alcohol Consumption – Even if you are legally allowed to drink alcohol, most casinos in the Netherlands implement consumption limits. This is done to prevent impulsive gambling decisions.
- Deposit, Betting and Credit limits – Like online gambling sites, psychical casinos allow players to establish deposit and spending limits to ensure that they have complete control and prevent excessive losses.
- Treatment Programs – Land-based casinos may develop their own responsible gambling initiatives or collaborate with external support organisations to provide support and treatment for gambling addiction.
Of course, the best way to avoid developing negative gambling habits that you can’t control would be to stay away from brick-and-mortar casinos. The regulations in the Netherlands may be strict, but the atmosphere at gambling venues can present an even higher risk for some individuals, so be cautious.
Responsible Gambling & Children – Signs of Potential Problems
Just because kids are legally prohibited from gambling, it doesn’t mean they are not exposed to the same risks. Furthermore, the signs can be different than in adults, so it’s fundamental to raise awareness on the issue of underage gambling. Below we have listed some ways to tell if a child you know is developing a problem:
- Your child has friends who gamble regularly.
- Your kid often plays with lottery tickets, cards, or dice.
- Your child shows particular interest in the results of sporting events.
- Your child lies, avoids talking, or is secretive about gambling activities.
- Your child borrows money from others to gamble, or you notice that money or personal belongings go missing from the house.
- Kids who say their parents have gambled in the past are most likely to engage in gambling activities.
Furthermore, gambling establishments always require an ID, but underage people can still get access if they have a fake card. Therefore, don’t put too much trust in the security systems of physical casinos, and if you notice any of these signs, address them early on.
Signals of Lack of Responsible Gambling at Online Casinos
Even if you find a licensed online casino in the Netherlands, some gambling sites are more dedicated to promoting responsible gambling than others. So, always look for an operator that puts your mental health first. Finally, avoid unlicensed operators completely and try to stay away from casinos that display any of the red flags on this list:
- The online casino does not have a licence from an authorised regulator.
- The online casino does not feature self-exclusion and time-limit options for gamblers to select.
- The operator does not cooperate with any responsible gambling organisations or provide a supportive environment for its customers.
- The gaming options’ RNG outcomes have not been verified by designated auditing agencies in the industry.
- The online casino lacks any security measures and encryption to protect the players’ personal data.
- The online casino employs advertisement strategies that encourage NL players to gamble beyond the scope of their strategy.
Even if a Dutch online casino seems trustworthy or has been recommended to you by a friend, always check if they follow responsible gambling guidelines. This topic is usually addressed on a separate page that can be accessed through the website’s footer, so that’s where you can start your research.
Interesting Statistics About Problem Gambling
According to the latest annual report published by the Ksa in 2022, the Dutch gambling market is dynamic and only expected to grow as more companies apply for licensing. However, that has also motivated the regulators to increase the advertising restrictions for games of chance and put more effort into promoting responsible gambling practices.
However, according to their report, the efforts to protect the Dutch population from the harmful effects of gambling have proven fruitful. Gambling addiction is still an issue that needs to be taken seriously, but the introduction of Cruks has played a significant role in preventing gambling addiction.
Conclusion: Play Safe & Gamble Responsibly
In conclusion, we would like to remind you once again how important it is to gamble responsibly. Not following guidelines can lead to the rapid development of unhealthy habits and even addiction. Therefore, look for early signs of problem gambling and, if needed, contact one of the NL responsible online gambling organisations highlighted in this guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve reached the end of this guide, and we hope that the information we provided has revealed what you can do to practice responsible gambling in the Netherlands. However, if you still have questions, stick around. In this section, we’ve answered some common inquiries Dutch players have, so there might be more valuable tips.
1. What is responsible gambling in the NL?
As you can deduct from the overview of this NL responsible gambling guide, this topic relates to two aspects. One of them concerns the regulations set by the Ksa to prevent gambling addiction. The second one is linked to the treatment of problem gambling, the involvement of support organisations and the measures Dutch players can take independently.
2. How do you gamble responsibly as a Dutch player?
There are many responsible gambling tips for Dutch players can follow to protect themselves while gaming online. Some include limiting the time and money spent on casino sites, while others focus on completely eliminating the risk through self-exclusion. All could be helpful, but which ones you implement depends on the health of your gambling habits.
3. Is it possible to gamble responsibly in the NL?
Yes, it is. The Ksa and licensed online casinos have already put a lot of effort into creating a safe environment for Dutch players. Therefore, all the tools you need to protect yourself are there. You just need to be aware of what measures and precautions you can take.
4. Why is responsible gambling important in the Netherlands?
Gambling addiction can have serious consequences, from grave financial losses to depression, social alienation, etc. If left unchecked, problem gambling can be detrimental to society, which is why the Dutch government is set on detecting the symptoms of gambling addiction early and promoting responsible gaming practices.
5. What are responsible gambling practices in the NL?
The Ksa and support organisations in the Netherlands have enforced or strongly suggested numerous best practices. However, according to the latest responsible gambling statistics, the introduction of the Cruks self-exclusion database has been one of the most effective measures taken so far. But if you want something less extreme, setting spending limits is a good place to start.
6. How does problem gambling affect Dutch families?
The consequences of addiction relate not only to the individual's mental state but also to his relationships with others. In addition, underage gambling in the Netherlands is another issue that families need to be aware of. Kids are more vulnerable to the negative effects of gambling, and even minor forms can be detrimental to their mental health.
7. What are some famous responsible gambling organisations in NL?
There are several Dutch responsible gambling organisations that you can contact if you need help dealing with problem gambling and addiction. Some examples include AGOG, Cruks, Jellinek, Tactus and Loket Kansspel. Furthermore, both private and group sessions are available, so you should consider what works best for you.
8. Who can Dutch players turn to for support and safe gambling tips?
If you're a Dutch player experiencing symptoms of problem gambling, you have several responsible gambling resources at your disposal. One is Stichting AGOG Nederland, which you can contact through the official site or by calling one of these numbers - 0800 22 777 22 and 020-4100517.