Glitnor Services, operator of LuckyCasino, has been fined SEK 28 million (€2.7 million) by the Swedish Gaming Authority for breaches of responsible gaming. The investigation revealed that several players were not sufficiently protected despite risky behaviour such as excessive betting and quick losses. Glitnor is contesting this sanction, claiming that the facts date back to before 2023 and that it is now applying stricter measures.
The online gaming scene in Sweden has been rocked by a major decision by the regulatory authorities. Glitnor Services, which operates the LuckyCasino platform, has been fined SEK 28 million (around €2.7 million) for failing to ensure responsible gaming. This penalty highlights significant failings in the protection of vulnerable players.
Serious shortcomings identified by the regulator
The Swedish Gaming Authority (Spelinspektionen) has conducted an in-depth investigation revealing that ten LuckyCasino customers did not benefit from adequate protection measures, despite clear signs of problem gambling behaviour. Among the most worrying cases, three players had monthly deposit limits of SEK 2.2 million (around €220,000). Another player made 3,200 bets in just five and a half hours, while one individual lost 24% of his declared annual income in the space of three days.
Although LuckyCasino had implemented some interventions, such as player contact, loss limits and personalised messages, the regulator concluded that these actions were insufficient to effectively reduce harmful gambling behaviour.
Glitnor’s response and its intention to appeal
Glitnor Services disagreed with the decision, describing the penalty as ‘unfair’ and based on ‘vague facts and unclear regulatory rules’. The company plans to appeal, pointing out that the cases cited by the regulator occurred before 2023 and do not reflect its current responsible gambling policy. Glitnor says it takes its duty of care very seriously and remains committed to maintaining a robust framework for responsible gambling.
This sanction comes against a backdrop of increased scrutiny of the online gaming sector in Sweden. Recently, Roar Vegas Ltd was also sanctioned by the regulator for similar failings, being fined SEK 8 million (approximately €801,000) after three of its customers were not provided with adequate protection.
Implications for the online gambling industry
These regulatory actions underline the importance for online gambling operators to put in place robust measures to protect players from the risks associated with problem gambling. The Swedish authorities are demonstrating their determination to enforce responsible gambling standards, sending a clear message to the industry about the need to prioritise consumer protection.
As the online gambling market continues to grow, regulators are likely to intensify their efforts to monitor and sanction breaches of responsible gambling obligations. Operators therefore need to be proactive in evaluating and improving their policies and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of their customers.