Norwegian authority warns against online gambling promotions by influencers

Jenny Ortiz February 14, 2024

SiGMA news

The Norwegian Gambling and Foundation Authority, also known as Lottstift, has issued a warning against social media platforms promoting live streams and content on online gambling.

Gamblingnews.com reported on Tuesday, that the warning follows Lottstift’s “serious action” against Schpell.com, a popular platform that generates entertaining content via daily live streams, vlogs, and competitions.

The website has recently broadcast several Norwegian influencers advertising online casino games.

Cease-and-desist written notices were issued to two other firms

Aside from Schpell.com, Lottstift also sent two other cease-and-desist written notices to two other companies namely Baris Entertainment AS and Viken Underholdning AS.

The notices were sent to two firms for allegedly having relationships with social media influencers advertising illegal gambling offers.

The firms were given until February 20 to fully comply. If they fail to do so, they will face fines and non-compliance violation fees.

Ban on foreign gambling ads in effect

Since 2021, the country has implemented a ban on advertisements by foreign gambling companies.

In Norway’s Broadcasting Act, operators are not allowed to use any gambling advertising to promote their services. This is exclusively reserved for the country’s state-owned monopolies Norsk Rikstoto with racing and Norsk Tipping offering betting and lottery options.

Regulated gaming in Norway

According to 2020 from Norsk Tipping, some 85 percent of all gaming in Norway takes place via regulated gaming companies.

According to the regulatory body, around 2.5 million Norwegians take part in some form of gaming during a year.

It added that around 90 percent of these have played via Norsk Tipping.

SiGMA Eurasia and SiGMA Africa – less than a month away

With less than a month until the highly anticipated SiGMA Africa event kicks off in Cape Town, South Africa on the 11th of March, the gaming industry is abuzz with excitement. Building on the success of its inaugural edition in Nairobi, Kenya, in January 2023, SiGMA Africa is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s burgeoning gaming landscape. With the continent’s market poised for exponential growth, driven by a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem and increasing mobile connectivity, SiGMA Group recognizes the need to foster collaboration and innovation within the industry. By bringing together leading stakeholders and visionaries in gaming, SiGMA aims to catalyse progress and propel Africa towards a new era of prosperity and opportunity. As the countdown to the event begins, anticipation mounts for what promises to be a landmark gathering of gaming enthusiasts and innovators in the vibrant city of Cape Town.

The fourth edition of SiGMA Eurasia will once again be held at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Held between the 25 and 27 February 2024, the summit provides invaluable opportunities for attendees to network with industry professionals, gain exposure to the latest tech and innovations in the sector, meet key decision makers, and gain insight into new markets.