Amidst Curaçao’s ongoing efforts to enhance enforcement in its gambling sector, the country’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has reached an out-of-court settlement with 12 online gaming operators accused of violating identity verification rules. While none of the implicated companies admitted any wrongdoing, they agreed to pay a fine and amend any regulatory deficiencies.
Users Could Gamble Without Providing Identification
The case stems from an investigation known as “Nebraska,” launched after a series of complaints by the Foundation for Representation of Victims of Online Gaming. The organization drew attention to players allegedly accessing online gambling content without sufficient Know Your Customer (KYC) verification. This step is mandatory under Curaçao’s national identification laws, so the case drew the attention of authorities.
The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee’s Special Task Force, operating under the prosecutor’s Central Team, examined 17 websites during the inquiry. Investigators found that the platforms allowed users to deposit money and bet without providing identification, breaching Curaçao’s underlying anti-money laundering and consumer protection regulations.
Twelve operators have accepted the prosecutor’s settlement offer, which includes fines totaling XCG 360,000 ($200,450). However, none of the implicated companies admitted guilt or wrongdoing. Each online casino operating under these entities received a fine of XCG 22,500 ($12,540). One undisclosed company failed to fulfill its financial obligation according to the agreement and now faces a license revocation and further legal action.
Curaçao Remains Adamant on Tightening Its Gambling Regulations
The settlement marks another milestone in a broader push to restore the integrity of Curaçao’s licensing regime. Historically, the country has offered a relatively lax regulatory environment to online gambling businesses. That status made the island a haven for offshore operators. However, it also drew international criticism for insufficient enforcement and lax oversight.
A few weeks ago, the Curaçao Gaming Control Board issued warnings to operators offering gambling services from the island without a valid local license. This move, combined with the recent settlements, marks a shift in tone from Curaçao authorities, who now strictly enforce the country’s updated regulatory regime.
“This is the first time that the online gambling business on Curaçao is being held accountable for non-compliance with the National Ordinance on Identification of Clients when Providing Services.”
Curaçao Public Prosecutor’s Office statement
While the newest fines are modest on paper, they signal Curaçao’s continued commitment to restoring its international reputation, protecting vulnerable individuals, and ensuring effective enforcement. For years, Curaçao was regarded as a jurisdiction offering operators a free pass. However, this era appears to be coming to a close.