The Norwegian government is anticipated to grant the Norwegian Lottery Authority the authority to block Domain Name System (DNS) access to unauthorized websites. This decision, expected to be implemented in January 2024, follows a two-year period of deliberation.
The head of the Norwegian Lottery Authority, Henrik Nordal, expressed the government’s backing for this measure, citing the potential risks posed by unauthorized gambling sites to Norwegian citizens. Nordal emphasized the aggressive nature of these games, which can lead to substantial financial losses in a short timeframe.
A 2019 survey revealed that 55,000 Norwegians are currently grappling with gambling issues, with an additional 122,000 at risk of developing such problems. The social costs associated with problem gambling in Norway amount to 5 billion kroner annually.
Nordal highlighted the vulnerability of Norwegian consumers, who are less likely than their counterparts in other nations to discern between legal and illegal gambling services. A significant portion of the population remains unaware or uncertain about authorized gambling providers.
The implementation of DNS blocking, according to Nordal, will limit access to high-risk gambling games, thereby safeguarding Norwegian players.
It is crucial to understand that many individuals are uninformed about the potential dangers associated with engaging in gaming activities with illicit gambling organizations.
This technique serves as an effective tactic for promoting awareness, while simultaneously acting as a preventative measure, as individuals are alerted and barred from accessing these monetary games.
Nordal also emphasized other steps Norway has taken to curtail the unlicensed gambling sector, beyond blocking. These actions include a prohibition on television advertising and a ban on payment intermediaries, which has resulted in some financial institutions severing ties with gambling firms.
“We are acquiring an increasing number of tools, and we are witnessing the positive effects of their combined implementation. We have consistently advocated for the swift introduction of DNS blocking, as it is a beneficial measure,” stated Nordal.
Regulatory actions
Upon the enactment of the new regulations in 2024, gambling companies that persist in broadcasting unlicensed gambling services to Norway will be subject to DNS blocking directives.
The agency declared its intention to utilize this transitional period to initiate legal proceedings against these entities, which could face the risk of financial penalties if they fail to cease their operations, as the regulatory body has previously done with Unibet and Betsson.
“We will prioritize this endeavor,” stated Nordal. “Regarding companies that intend to withdraw from Norway and have implemented measures demonstrating this intent, we will prioritize guidance over immediate action and DNS blocking.”
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