Dutch Trade Body to Sue Meta Over Illegal Gambling Ads

Dutch Gambling Group Takes Action

According to the Dutch online gambling association VNLOK, it will file a lawsuit against Meta. The group will also take a complaint to the European Commission. VNLOK is a representation of several licensed Dutch gambling companies. This includes well-known brands such as Bingoal Nederland BV, LeoVegas Gaming Plc, Holland Casino NV, and others. Meta has failed to do enough to prevent ads for illegal gambling from coming to the attention of the Dutch, it says.

The conflict coincides with big changes in the Dutch gambling market. Conditions are more difficult for the licensed operators due to new advertising restrictions, new taxes, and new regulations.

Thousands of Illegal Ads Reported

According to VNLOK, Facebook and Instagram continue to carry large numbers of illegal gambling ads. Research mentioned by the association found more than 70,000 gambling ads aimed at Dutch users during the last quarter of 2025. The group says over 95% of those ads came from unlicensed casinos.

At the same time, VNLOK claims Meta removed less than 5% of them. Those figures have increased concerns across the industry. Licensed operators argue that illegal casinos can reach users more easily through online advertising.

VNLOK says illegal casinos often ignore rules designed to protect players. These rules help prevent gambling harm and stop underage users from accessing gambling services.

Concerns Over Player Safety

VNLOK chairman Björn Fuchs said the problem is bigger than lost business. He warned that illegal operators may target vulnerable groups, including minors and people with gambling problems. He said protecting users should remain the main priority.

According to VNLOK, illegal gambling ads create several risks:

• They can direct users to unlicensed casinos.

• They may reach underage audiences.

• They often promote operators that do not follow Dutch player protection rules.

• They can make it harder for consumers to identify legal gambling services.

The association also claims Meta has not engaged in meaningful discussions about the issue for some time. Nevertheless, VNLOK believes stronger action could help reduce illegal advertising and improve player protection.

Black Market Growth Raises Questions

The legal action comes as concerns about the Dutch black market continue to rise. VNLOK estimates that Dutch users spend more than €1 billion each year on unlicensed casinos. The association also believes the illegal market may now be as large as the regulated one.

Beyond the lawsuit, VNLOK argues that major online companies have legal duties under European rules. The group says they should do more to find and remove illegal gambling ads. To explain the problem, the association compared current efforts to cleaning up water from a floor — while the tap is still running.

Hence, VNLOK hopes the court case will lead to stronger action. The outcome could affect how illegal gambling ads are handled across Europe.