De Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa), the Dutch gambling regulator, has fined Optdeck Service Limited, the company behind Unibet, €400,000. The fine was issued after Unibet failed to prevent self-excluded players from accessing its services. Optdeck has stated it will not contest the penalty.

• Cruks is a self-exclusion system designed to help players avoid gambling harm. It works by registering players who want to take a “Gokstop,” ensuring they cannot access online or physical gambling services. Licensed operators are required to check players against the Cruks database before allowing them to register.
• The issue arose during the 2022 World Cup. The Ksa received reports in mid-2023 that Unibet had not properly conducted Cruks checks. After an investigation, it was confirmed that some self-excluded players were able to bypass the system during this period.
• The €400,000 fine serves as a penalty for the breach and a warning to other operators. The Ksa has highlighted this case to stress the consequences of non-compliance.
• Unibet has chosen not to appeal the decision. This suggests an acknowledgment of the breach and an intention to move forward.