Kansspelautoriteit imposes heavy penalty on influencer LeftlanePapi 

The Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa) is now tackling gambling influencers faster. It has imposed an order for a penalty payment on LeftlanePapi. This is the first time it has gone this far. The Ksa wants to crack down on influential gamblers on social media, especially if they reach young people.

What happened to LeftlanePapi

LeftlanePapi posted videos in which he gambled through illegal sites. He livestreamed his game and encouraged viewers to join in. That content remained online even after the Ksa warned. Then new streams appeared with the same illegal content. That’s when the Ksa decided on this harsh measure.

What does an order under penalty

An order under penalty is a warning with consequences. LeftlanePapi has to remove its old content and is not allowed to advertise illegal gambling again. He must also stop livestreaming on the suspect sites. Otherwise, he will receive €25,000 per offence, up to a maximum of €75,000.

Why is the Ksa cracking down on influencers

The Ksa is getting more and more signals about influencers promoting illegal gambling. They often target young followers. This worries the authority. It wants to prevent young people from being attracted to unlicensed gambling sites. With this approach, they hope that the content will preferably disappear quickly.

Two-track approach

The Ksa follows a two-step system:

1. It sends an alert to the influencer.
2. If the content remains online after 48 hours, they engage social media platforms.
3. And they impose an order under penalty.

This way, the Ksa wants to intervene not only with the influencer himself, but also with the platforms hosting the content.

What LeftlanePapi has to do now

LeftlanePapi has to take down all old streams. He is also not allowed to post any more videos in which he gives gambling advice or portrays illegal providers. Within 48 hours, he must take action. Otherwise, the fine will follow.

What the consequences are if he violates

If he still continues to post content, each violation costs €25,000. With three infringements, this rises to €75,000. With this, the Ksa shows that it is serious. With this fine, it wants to deter people and take away content that could lure young people.

What this means for other influencers

The Ksa revealed that it has already warned several influencers. LeftlanePapi is the first to receive a penalty notice. This signal may cause others to modify or remove their content. Or stop promoting illegal gambling.

Why this is important for parents and young people

Many young people follow influencers on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. When their idols promote gambling, young people may feel that it is normal. Through this action, the Ksa wants to prevent young people from getting into trouble with gambling, especially with illegal providers.

What to expect next

It is quite possible that the Ksa will take more tough action. It has issued several warnings. If influencers do not comply, the Ksa may again impose an order under penalty. They stress that they do not hesitate to follow through if necessary.