Denmark to Block a Record 178 Illegal iGaming Sites

The Danish Gambling Authority (Spillemyndigheden) has obtained a court order to block 178 illegal gambling websites. The ruling from the Frederiksberg Court on June 26 marks the largest mass blocking since 2012.

📌 Who’s Being Blocked?

The blacklist mainly includes multiple versions of the same brands:

Verdecasino — over 70 domains
CSGOempire — more than 10 websites
N1bet — around 20 pages

In total, 616 sites have been blocked since 2012.

📈 Unprecedented Measures Against Illegal Gambling

This is Spillemyndigheden’s largest enforcement action to date. While such blockings used to occur annually, as of 2024 they now happen twice a year.

Anders Dorph, Director of Spillemyndigheden, stated: “It’s frustrating that illegal sites keep appearing, but it’s reassuring to know we have the tools to identify and shut them down.”

Why the Crackdown?

Rise in unlicensed platforms targeting Danish players
Lack of player protection on unauthorized sites
More frequent blockings ensure quicker takedown

🔍 How the Blocking Works

The shutdown process includes several steps:

Spillemyndigheden identifies a non-compliant website
A formal cease and desist request is issued
If ignored, telecom providers are involved
A court order mandates DNS-level blocking, which providers must enforce

Through DNS blocking, users attempting to access the site receive a notice that access is restricted by order of Spillemyndigheden.

📋 What Makes a Site Illegal in Denmark?

Any platform offering gambling services in Denmark without a license is considered illegal. Indicators that a site is targeting Danish users include:

Use of the Danish language
Support for the Danish krone
Payment options exclusive to Denmark
Danish-language customer support
Integration with Steam for esports betting
Offering bets on lower-tier Danish sports leagues

✅ How to Identify Licensed Platforms

Official gambling sites must display the Spillemyndigheden certification mark. This assures players that the platform is licensed and regulated.

Using the mark without written permission is prohibited. It confirms that users are playing on a legal site with proper safeguards and standards.

Benefits of Licensed Gambling Sites

Criterion	Licensed Site	Unlicensed Site
Holds a valid license	Yes	No
Regulated by Spillemyndigheden	Yes	No
Player rights protection	Available	Not guaranteed
Use of official certification mark	Permitted	Prohibited

📎 Conclusion

Spillemyndigheden continues to crack down on illegal gambling operators, stepping up enforcement by conducting site blockings twice a year. These efforts aim to protect Danish consumers and uphold transparency in the gambling sector.

Players are encouraged to choose only licensed platforms, check for the certification mark, and avoid sites listed by Spillemyndigheden.