The Danish Gambling Authority gained more ground in its fight against illegal gambling in Denmark on June 26, with the Frederiksberg court ruled in favour of the Authority and ordering telecom providers to block 178 unlicensed gambling websites. This is the largest single blocking case since the Danish Gambling Authority began this process in 2012.

With its latest decision, the body has now blocked a total of 616 illegal sites. Since 2024, these cases have been appearing in court twice a year. With this approach, unlicensed sites are shut down more quickly, protecting Danish consumers from risky operators.

Anders Dorph, Director of the Danish Gambling Authority, said, “It is of course frustrating that illegal gambling sites targeting Danes continue to appear. But I am very pleased that we have tools to find the sites and that we succeed in blocking them.” His words highlight their battle to keep the Danish gaming market fair.

How the Blocking Process Works

Blocking illegal gambling sites follows a structured process. First, the Authority identifies websites that offer gambling services without a Danish license. The providers are asked to stop targeting players from the country. If they don’t comply, the Authority contacts telecommunications companies to block access to their sites. Finally, the court reviews the case and issues an order to block the websites.

The blocking mechanism uses a DNS system. This means telecom providers stop the connection between the player and the gambling site. Anyone trying to visit a blocked site will see a message that explains the site is illegal and blocked by the Danish Gambling Authority.

This method allows the regulatory body to act quickly without shutting down the websites themselves. It also serves as a warning to illegal operators trying to reach Danish players.

What Makes a Gambling Site Illegal in Denmark?

It is illegal to offer gambling in Denmark without a license from the local regulatory authority. A website is considered to target Danish players if it meets one or more of the following criteria:

• Uses Danish language
• Accepts Danish currency
• Supports payment cards that only work in Denmark
• Provides Danish customer service
• Connects via platforms like Steam with local games
• Offers bets on Danish sports events, including lower leagues

These criteria help the Authority spot foreign gambling sites that target Danish users without following local laws.

The Role of the License Mark in Player Protection

To protect players, all licensed gaming providers must display the Danish Gambling Authority’s official license mark on their sites. Players should always look for this license mark before placing bets. The mark is not allowed to be used without permission from the Authority, so it is a reliable sign of a safe gambling site.

With the recent court ruling and record number of blocked sites, Denmark solidifies its reputation as a leader in responsible gaming. The Danish Gambling Authority’s quick actions continue to shield players and ensure a trustworthy gaming market.