Gambling sector under fire: Illegal practices lead to closures and fines
•
18 May 2024 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Stricter controls by the Belgian Gaming Commission (KSC) lead to closures and fines.
The stricter controls carried out by the Belgian Gaming Commission (KSC) on betting shops are showing shocking results. Nine branches were recently temporarily closed due to violations of the law including the lack of identity checks the use of illegal machines and money laundering.
Many betting shops do not have the EPIS system in order
The inspections showed that many betting shops had a faulty EPIS system (Excluded Persons Information System). This system should ensure that betting shops are not accessible to people who are banned from gambling due to a gambling addiction or other reasons.
The EPIS system in nine shops was defective resulting in the closure of 63 machines and the seizure of €40.000.
More than 50.000 people are on the EPIS list
There are currently almost 50.000 persons on the EPIS list who are not allowed to gamble for various reasons. Several people have voluntarily registered on the list, while almost 652.000 people have been excluded due to their financial circumstances or profession in gambling.
Offenders will be fined and legally punished
Betting shops that break the law will be fined and face legal action. The fines can range from €200 to €200.000. Administrative sanctions such as suspension or revocation of licenses are also possible.
EPIS control is extended to betting in press shops
The EPIS control will be extended to betting in press shops from spring 2025. This new requirement will be complied with by more than 1.400 betting shops.