Sweden intensifies crackdown on unlicensed gambling platforms

Key Moments:

  • Spelinspektionen has issued new bans against three operators accused of targeting Swedish players without authorization
  • Investigations revealed direct targeting of Swedish consumers by Liquid Entertainment NV via duelbits.com
  • The regulator has expanded its blacklist to include more companies using localized content and advertising

Swedish Regulator Steps Up Against Unlicensed Operators

Sweden’s gambling authority, Spelinspektionen, has announced further enforcement measures in the ongoing effort to curb illegal online gambling. The agency has imposed new bans on three operators, citing evidence that these firms targeted Swedish users without holding the required local license. These actions occur as the country prepares to reevaluate its Gambling Act, seeking new ways to toughen regulatory oversight and eliminate avenues exploited by unauthorized brands.

Details of the Duelbits Investigation

A recent investigation homed in on Liquid Entertainment NV, a Curaçao-based business operating duelbits.com. Authorities initiated a probe after detecting indicators that the site was providing access to Swedish customers. It was discovered that, when accessed using a Swedish IP address, duelbits.com defaulted to Sweden during sign-up and offered the entire registration process in Swedish.

Further inquiry showed the brand or its affiliates marketed heavily in Swedish via various online channels. Methods included affiliate websites, content creators, paid search advertising, and promotions on the Kick streaming platform.

Basis for the Ban

According to Spelinspektionen, the lack of any restrictions barring Swedish users from registering was grounds for action. The agency maintained that this demonstrated active engagement with local consumers, a violation given the operator’s lack of a Swedish gaming license. Sweden’s rules require every online gambling provider to obtain a domestic license; without it, operators are subject to immediate bans and website blocks.

Growing List of Targets

The enforcement push does not stop with Liquid Entertainment. Spelinspektionen has also recently banned WinBet, the operator of Superb.bet, for leveraging unlicensed, Swedish-language content intended for local players. This follows decisions earlier in the month against Rabocse SRL and Solid Software Solutions SRL, which are tied to an array of domains such as gxmble.io, palmcasino.io, seven7.casino, slottio.com, wildzy.io, winstler.co, winzter.com, and solidlotto.com.

Every ban stemmed from similar observations: unlicensed firms actively courting Swedish players with customized content and straightforward access, sidestepping the country’s licensing framework.

CompanyBanned Site(s)Reason for Ban
Liquid Entertainment NVduelbits.comTargeting Swedish users, absence of registration restrictions, localized marketing
WinBetSuperb.betUnlicensed localized content aimed at Swedish market
Rabocse SRL, Solid Software Solutions SRLgxmble.io, palmcasino.io, seven7.casino, slottio.com, wildzy.io, winstler.co, winzter.com, solidlotto.comUnlicensed operations and targeting of Swedish players

Strengthening Controls Amid Industry Scrutiny

The latest crackdown reflects mounting pressure on Spelinspektionen to reinforce its grip over Sweden’s regulated gambling environment. There has been ongoing criticism regarding the ability of unauthorized platforms to reach Swedish audiences, often through digital marketing outlets and social channels frequented by younger demographics.

By adding more companies to its enforcement list, the authority aims to underscore the necessity of engaging only with licensed platforms providers obliged to adhere to responsible gaming standards and tax contributions.

Context in the Broader European Market

Sweden’s actions resonate with a continent-wide movement, as regulators in various European countries are intensifying efforts to stop cross-border unlicensed operators. In markets such as the Netherlands and Romania, authorities have escalated their enforcement and blacklisting efforts, aligning with Sweden’s approach. For the Swedish sector, the efficacy of regulatory enforcement plays a crucial role in maintaining public confidence in the established system.

Looking Ahead

The takeaway for the industry is apparent: compliance with Swedish licensing rules is not optional. Operators risk swift exclusion if found breaching the regulations. As the regulator increases its scrutiny, especially towards affiliate marketers and streaming platforms, further enforcement announcements appear inevitable.

Players gain benefit from increased clarity regarding where legal and authorized online gambling is available. The latest bans serve as a clear sign for unlicensed providers: oversight in Sweden is intensifying, and the window for non-compliance is closing rapidly.

  • Author

Daniel Williams

Daniel Williams has started his writing career as a freelance author at a local paper media. After working there for a couple of years and writing on various topics, he found his interest for the gambling industry.
Daniel Williams
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