## Norway Unveils DNS Blocking Strategy – Legal – iGB
The Norwegian administration has put forward a legal proposal that will prohibit websites offering unauthorized betting.
**Home > Legal & Compliance > Legal > Norway Unveils DNS Blocking Strategy**
Norway has revealed a DNS blocking strategy to uphold its national gambling monopoly. The government is mandating internet service providers to implement technical measures that will stop users from accessing specific websites using the Domain Name System (DNS). The legislation specifies that if a user attempts to access a blocked website, they will be redirected to a landing page containing information regarding the reason for the website’s blockage.
The Ministry of Culture and Equality presented proposed changes to the Gambling Act on Friday (October 20th) and received cabinet approval. This legislation follows over two years of discussions by Norwegian authorities on DNS blocking of unauthorized websites.
“We are taking this action to prevent and minimize gambling issues and safeguard vulnerable players and their families,” stated Culture and Equality Minister Lubna Jaffery.
“This measure will not impact internet service providers if foreign gambling companies adhere to Norwegian law. Consequently, we must regulate by targeting entities over whom we have authority.”
The government continues to strive to block unlicensed websites.
The Norwegian administration recently declared that unmonitored websites might be prohibited in 2024. This declaration follows Kindred Group’s departure from Norway in September.
Norwegian financial organizations have been monitoring and stopping transactions associated with unlawful gambling. However, last month, the Norwegian Gambling Authority (Lotteritilsynet) revealed that it is observing nine banks to ensure compliance with rules.
Earlier this year, Lotteritilsynet director Henrik Nordal backed the implementation of DNS blocking for unmonitored websites.
“DNS blocking makes high-risk gambling games more difficult to access, thus safeguarding Norwegian players,” Nordal stated. “It also means that many individuals are unaware of the hazards associated with playing with unlawful gambling companies.
“Through DNS blocking, players are informed and blocked when accessing such money games. This is an effective publicity measure and will also have a preventive effect.”
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has requested an end to the Norwegian online gambling monopoly.
Norway remains one of the few nations in Europe with a state-owned gambling monopoly. Norsk Tipping holds the rights to online casino games and sports betting, while Norsk Rikstoto is responsible for horse racing.
Consequently, online gambling options are limited. However, the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has recently encouraged Norway to move towards a licensing model.
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) believes Norway ought to emulate the practices of Sweden and Finland by implementing a licensing scheme for gambling activities. EGBA head Maarten Haijer asserts that this approach would effectively deter individuals from engaging in gambling on unauthorized websites.
Subscribe to the iGaming newsletter.