Swedish regulator hits unlicensed operator with ban
Swedish Gambling Authority takes action against Versus Odds BV and warns the firm against targeting Sweden-based players following investigation
The Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) has announced Curaçao-based operator Versus Odds BV has been banned from operating in Sweden.
The decision, which comes into effect immediately, was made after the regulator conducted a investigation into the website fortunepanda.com.
The investigation began after concerns were raised that the site hosted games that were aimed at the Swedish market without the required licence.
During the process, the SGA found the site had information, such as how to participate in games, in Swedish, alongside both policy documents and a FAQ section also both in Swedish.
The SGA also noted marketing materials aimed at Sweden-based players through Versus Odds’ affiliates.
The investigation also found Sweden-based players were not prevented from creating an account, as well as claiming Versus Odds is the owner of Fortune Panda.
The operator oversees a number of different sites, including casinoorca.com, depositwin.com and hazcasino.com.
While Versus Odds was offered the chance to issue a statement of reply, the SGA said no such reply has been received.
The SGA ruled Versus Odds had been targeting Sweden-based users without a licence and was in breach of chapter three, section three of the nation’s Gambling Act.
An update from the regulator read: “Versus Odds BV lacks a licence to provide games in Sweden. The Swedish Gambling Authority therefore decides to ban Versus Odds BV from providing games in Sweden.
“The Swedish Gambling Authority considers that, with regard to consumer protection and to guarantee gaming safety, it is important that the decision is complied with immediately. The decision must therefore apply immediately.”
Last year, the SGA handed down 17 banning orders to unlicensed companies that had targeted the Swedish market.
The news comes just over two weeks after the SGA launched a new responsible gambling campaign designed to drive players towards licensed operators.
The ‘Unnecessarily Exciting’ campaign aims to highlight the risks that come from engaging with illegal operators, as well as to provide players with information on where to find regulated options.
Yvonne Hejdenberg, head of communications at the SGA, explained: “Building awareness and changing behaviour is a long-term effort.
“We believe in a concept that can work and develop over time. With the animated format, we can communicate quickly and clearly.”