12 Online Casinos in Curaçao Fined for Failing to Verify Player Identities
The Curaçao Public Prosecutor’s Office reached a settlement with 12 online casino operators totaling €170,400 following an investigation dubbed “Operation Nebraska.”
What Triggered the Investigation
The investigation began after complaints from Stichting Belangenbehartiging Gedupeerde Online Kansspelen and reports in the media. A special task force reviewed 17 websites where players could register and deposit funds without mandatory identity verification.
These practices violate local regulations aimed at preventing money laundering, fraud, and underage gambling.
Why Identity Verification Matters
- Helps prevent the use of online casinos for illegal activities
- Reduces the risk of financial fraud
- Limits gambling access for minors and vulnerable players
Settlement Details
All 12 operators were offered a settlement by the prosecutor’s office. One declined and will face criminal charges. The remaining 11 companies agreed to pay the fines:
| Number of Operators | Fine per Brand | Total Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | €10,700 per brand | €170,400 |
In Curaçao’s national currency (XCG), the total amounted to 360,000. The fine was applied to each brand operated by the legal entities.
Why a Settlement Was Reached
According to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the cases were settled out of court because:
- The parties involved were legal entities, not individuals
- This was the first such case in Curaçao’s gambling sector
- A court ruling would likely have imposed monetary fines as well
Will the Names Be Made Public?
The names of the violating companies have not been disclosed as part of the settlement terms. However, the operator who declined the deal and faces trial may be publicly identified later.
Industry Implications
This case marks the first formal enforcement action against operators for failing to comply with KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements. Authorities have stated they will continue monitoring KYC compliance in the online gambling sector.
Conclusion
The Curaçao Prosecutor’s decision sends a clear message to the gambling industry: failure to meet basic player identification standards can result in hefty fines and legal consequences. Operation Nebraska highlighted that Curaçao’s gaming market is now firmly on the radar of law enforcement.