Netherlands Sees 100,000 Self-Imposed Gambling Bans

Milestone Reached Amidst Growing Concerns Over Online Gaming Addiction

Over 100,000 individuals in the Netherlands have voluntarily opted out of gambling, a significant benchmark indicating a rising awareness of potential addiction risks. This figure, surpassing 100,000 last week, comes from the national gambling authority’s exclusion register, Cruks.

Cruks: A Digital Shield Against Gambling Losses

The Cruks system, launched in 2021 concurrently with the legalization of online gambling, allows anyone concerned about losing control at casinos or on betting sites to register using their DigiD digital identity. Legal gambling establishments are then obligated to block these individuals from accessing their services.

The number of registrations has seen a consistent increase, with an average of 300 to 500 new sign-ups weekly. Data reveals that half of these registrants are under 32 years old, and most choose an initial ban period of at least six months. A spokesperson for the Kansspelautoriteit noted that many remain registered even after this initial period, highlighting the system’s aim to prevent impulsive decisions.

Awareness Campaign Underway as Flaws Emerge

Despite Cruks offering a protection level not available for other behavioral addictions, it is not entirely foolproof. Problem gamblers can still access illegal gambling sites, some of which openly advertise that Cruks registrations do not apply to them.

A survey conducted last year indicated that a striking nine out of ten gamblers were unaware of Cruks. In response, the Kansspelautoriteit is actively working to boost public knowledge through various initiatives, including billboard campaigns near amusement arcades and outreach to healthcare professionals.

The national addiction watchdog reported last year that tens of thousands of people have faced financial difficulties due to the way online gambling was legalized four years ago. While the intention was to create a regulated market to better assist those gambling illegally abroad, reports suggest it has led to an increase in addiction and debt.

Currently, 27 companies hold licenses to operate 37 distinct online gambling brands within the Netherlands.

Globally, gambling addiction remains a significant public health issue. For instance, in the United States, an estimated 2.6% of adults, or about 6.5 million people, are considered problem gamblers, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling.