For the months of December and January, Norsk Tipping has lowered monthly loss limits for what it defines as “high-risk games” by 25%.

The measure is one of several introduced by the Norwegian operator on 1 Dec with the aim of better protecting its customers over the two months.

The monthly loss limit for online games KongKasino, eFlax, Bingoria and Yezz has been lowered to NOK 7,500 ($848.33). In addition, the maximum daily loss limit on these games has been lowered by 50% to NOK 2,000.

Among the other measures are an increase in the mandatory break after continuous play from 90 seconds to 15 minutes, and the removal of the ‘Popular’ label for selected casino games.

Explaining the new measures, Norsk Tipping CEO Åsne Havnelid said: “We know that gambling problems are increasing in the population, and that December is our biggest gambling month. 

“The measures against COVID-19 mean that more people can experience spending more time alone than they usually do during the Christmas month. 

“For vulnerable players, this can lead to more gambling, and we want to prevent that.”

According to the company, the efficacy of the measures will determine the strategy moving forward in regards to customer protection.

Havenild said digital analysis tool PlayScan will be a “valuable indicator” in assessing the development of problem gambling during the winter months.