The Norwegian regulatory authority revealed that there are 23 companies behind the websites currently blocked in Norway. This is the first round of blocking initiated by Lotteritilsynet, aimed at combating unauthorized activities.
The principle of DNS interception is to redirect players from illegal websites to a page hosted by their Internet service provider. This page explains that although the website consumers try to access is illegal, attempting to gamble on that site is not against the law.
Lotteritilsynet lawyer Silje Sægrov Amble stated that blocking illegal websites will help address gambling-related issues in Norway.
"Blocking illegal websites will help reduce the incidence of gambling addiction," she said, "These games carry the highest risk. They are designed to be addictive and cause you to lose a lot of money in a short amount of time."
Warning Illegal Websites to Exit Norway
Last fall, Lotteritilsynet warned nearly 50 companies that their websites faced blocking, which led to the first round of blocks. Of the approximately 100 websites operated by these companies, nearly 40 have already exited Norway.
Lotteritilsynet has not yet disclosed specific details of the blocked websites. However, it revealed that several large companies withdrew from the site after the initial warning.
Amble stated that blocking methods are being used in conjunction with other technologies to combat illegal gambling. She added that these efforts make it harder for unlicensed operators to target Norwegian players.
"In Norway, it's becoming increasingly difficult for illegal gambling companies to operate," Amble said. "There are many reasons. TV advertisements have disappeared, and Norwegian banks have also stopped providing betting and bonuses to these companies."
Whether the Website is Illegal Remains Controversial
However, Amble also acknowledged that more measures are needed to protect players. According to a survey conducted by Sentio, about 50% of Norwegians do not know which operators are approved to provide gambling services in the country.
Therefore, she calls for granting more power to regulatory authorities to better monitor the market and combat illegal websites.
"Players are unaware of the risks," she said. "We believe most people want to know they are entering illegal games. Therefore, blocking is also an informational measure."
