Dutch online gambling trade association VNLOK has announced legal action against Meta and plans to file a complaint with the European Commission, alleging the company has failed to adequately address the spread of illegal gambling advertisements on Facebook and Instagram.
The organization argues that unlicensed gambling operators continue to gain access to Dutch consumers through Meta’s platforms, despite legal obligations designed to curb illegal content. According to VNLOK, the issue has grown into a major consumer protection concern as the illegal gambling market expands across the Netherlands.
The association estimates that more than €1 billion is spent annually on illegal online gambling platforms, with the black market now reaching a size comparable to the regulated sector.
“This is not only an economic problem, but above all a major risk to consumer protection. Illegal providers do not adhere to rules regarding addiction prevention and actively target vulnerable groups such as minors and problem gamblers,” said VNLOK Chairman Björn Fuchs.
Research Reveals Widespread Advertising
VNLOK said its research found more than 70,000 gambling advertisements targeting Dutch consumers on Facebook and Instagram during the final quarter of 2025.
According to the association, over 95% of those advertisements came from illegal operators and generated tens of millions of monthly impressions. VNLOK also claimed that Meta removed fewer than 5% of the advertisements identified.
The organization argues that Facebook and Instagram have become major channels for illegal gambling promotion in the Netherlands.
Trade Body Questions Meta’s Approach
VNLOK said Meta relies largely on reporting tools that remove advertisements after they have already been viewed by users.
“That is like trying to mop up water with the tap still running,” VNLOK said.
The association added: “Illegal providers keep returning with new advertisements. The Gaming Authority submits thousands of reports of illegal gambling advertisements to Meta every month.”
VNLOK argues that large online platforms are required to invest in systems that detect, monitor and restrict illegal gambling advertising. The group contends that Meta is falling short of its obligations under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA).
“As long as Meta fails to meet its legal obligation, the illegal market will continue to grow and vulnerable players will be exposed to significant risks.”
Complaint Heads to Brussels
VNLOK stated that efforts to engage Meta in discussions have not produced meaningful results. According to the association, Meta requests examples of problematic advertisements but has not cooperated on broader solutions.
The trade body will ask a Dutch court to rule that Meta has violated the DSA and require stronger detection and prevention measures. It is also seeking potential penalty payments for non-compliance.
At the same time, VNLOK has asked the European Commission to investigate the matter and consider enforcement action.
While the current complaint focuses on Meta, the association said Google, banks and game providers should also do more to restrict the activities of illegal gambling operators.
Source:
“Trade association VNLOK takes legal action and goes to Brussels over massive illegal gambling advertisements on Facebook and Instagram”, vnlok.nl, Jun 22, 2026
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