Sweden Blocks Unlicensed Skin-Gambling Operators
In Sweden, the regulator Spelinspektionen blocked the skin-gambling operator “hellcase.com” (Yomoly Ltd) for operating without a license.
Reasons for the Block
Spelinspektionen prohibited Yomoly Ltd from offering games in Sweden without the required license. The decision takes effect immediately. The main reasons include:
- The hellcase.com website hosts “skin” lotteries — cosmetic in-game items that can be bought and sold outside of the game.
- Players can place real-money bets to win skins, which may be worth more or less than the stake.
- The website’s marketing is conducted through user-generated content on video platforms such as Twitch and Kick.
- The site allows users to select the Swedish language and register or log in using a Swedish IP address.
Website Inspection and Test Purchases
The regulator conducted a covert inspection of the website. While a test purchase was not completed, it revealed that:
| Parameter | Result |
|---|---|
| Swedish language option | Available during registration and payment method selection |
| Accessibility for Swedish users | Registration and account creation are unrestricted |
| Marketing | Conducted in Swedish through affiliates |
Company Information
The hellcase.com website is owned and operated by Yomoly Ltd, located at Charlampou Mouskou, 20, ABC CENTER, 4th floor, office 406, 8010, Paphos, Cyprus. The company provided information about other entities responsible for marketing and gaming operations on the site.
Applicable Laws
Under the Swedish Gambling Act (Spellagen 2018:1138):
- Any game involving monetary bets or prizes requires a license.
- Online games targeting the Swedish market are considered to be offered in Sweden.
- Lotteries are defined as games where participants have a chance to win a random prize.