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Pragmatic Play blocks Dutch users on illegal casino sites overnight

A mysterious overnight ban leaves Dutch gamblers locked out. Could this move reshape the fight against unlicensed betting?

The image shows a man playing a slot machine with the words "Jackpot" on it. He is surrounded by a...
The image shows a man playing a slot machine with the words "Jackpot" on it. He is surrounded by a board with text and pictures of fruits, suggesting that he is playing online casino games.

Pragmatic Play blocks Dutch users on illegal casino sites overnight

Players in the Netherlands can no longer access Pragmatic Play games on illegal online casinos. The sudden restriction has left many users seeing a 'not available in your region' message. The reason behind the move remains unknown. The change affects anyone using a Dutch IP address trying to play Pragmatic Play titles. Instead of loading, the games now show a regional block notification. This applies only to unlicensed gambling sites, not to regulated platforms.

Pragmatic Play currently holds an 11.85% share of the Dutch online casino market. The company dominates in other countries, with nearly 20% market share in the UK, Italy, and Brazil. Industry observers suggest the restriction may aim to curb the appeal of illegal gambling in the Netherlands.

No official explanation has been provided for the decision. The timing and motivation behind the block remain unclear. The restriction limits access to one of the most popular game providers on unlicensed sites. Dutch players on illegal platforms now face fewer options when choosing casino games. The long-term impact on the market is still uncertain.

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