Key points:
- Betca removed a gambling ad from Tiny Tower after a KSA warning over a regulatory breach
- The ad violated rules banning gambling promotion in non-gambling games, especially those with young audiences
- No further action was taken by the KSA due to Betca’s swift response and preventive measures
Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has intervened following the appearance of a prohibited gambling advertisement by Betca, operator of the Circus.nl platform, within the mobile game Tiny Tower.
The ad, which promoted the online gambling website, was found to be in violation of Dutch advertising regulations that prohibit gambling promotions in non-gambling digital environments – particularly where the audience may include minors or young adults.
Upon being notified by the KSA, Betca acted promptly to remove the advertisement.
The company attributed the issue to human error and has since implemented measures to prevent similar incidents.
According to Betca, the ad was intended only for users over the age of 24 who had previously visited the Circus.nl website.
Despite this intent, the placement within Tiny Tower – a casual mobile game with a broad and youthful user base – breached the guidelines.
The KSA acknowledged Betca’s swift corrective action and the explanation provided, deciding not to impose further sanctions at this time.
However, the regulator emphasised that it remains vigilant and will continue monitoring future advertising practices by Betca and other operators.
This development follows a broader regulatory trend in the Netherlands, with recent initiatives including tighter oversight of illegal gaming machines and proposed age restrictions for high-risk gambling activities.
