Dutch Gambling Regulator Warns Consumers about Illegal Lotteries

The Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has issued a warning about illegal lotteries organised through Facebook and strongly advised not to participate in such kinds of lotteries.

These types of lotteries allow participants to compete for a prize for a few euros, usually through Facebook. Organisers are located in the Netherlands or abroad, and the payment is made via internet banking or “tikkie.” It usually concerns small or second-hand items, but sometimes it also includes luxury items or cash.

“Despite an earlier warning, dipping seems to be gaining popularity. We also have the impression that the prices are becoming larger and more expensive, with the aim of enticing as many consumers as possible to play along. Whether those prizes will actually be raffled and awarded is the question. This is our reason to ring the bell again. These lotteries take place outside everyone’s view and every check,” Bernadette van Buchem, member of the board of directors of the Kansspelautoriteit, said.