Swedish Authorities Tighten Control Over Offshore Gambling Operators and Plan to Introduce Criminal Liability

In recent months, control over gambling operators in Sweden has intensified significantly. Some operators have been blocked, and the Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) has begun issuing press releases about measures taken against platforms promoting such operators’ services.

Why have the Swedish authorities stepped up their fight against gambling operators

In Sweden, gambling is regulated by Spelinspektionen (the Swedish Gambling Authority). Since 2019, a licensing system has been in place: both online and offline operators are required to obtain a Swedish license. The main requirements include:

• incorporation within the EU/EEA;

• strict responsible gaming rules (including self-exclusion through the Spelpaus system);

• player protection and fair gaming practices;

• taxation at 18% of Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR).

Without a license, it is prohibited to offer gambling services in Sweden, including through offshore websites. However, players themselves are not banned from accessing such sites—the responsibility falls on the operator, not the user. “Offering gambling to players” includes advertising, encouraging interest, and deliberately targeting Swedish users, which is exactly what regulators are cracking down on.

What has happened in recent months

The SGA has been actively monitoring various operators, assessing whether their activities violate Swedish law. For instance, if an audit reveals signs of targeting Swedish users on a site, that is a direct violation and grounds for blocking.

In one of its press releases, the Swedish Gambling Authority also stated that it had notified a number of Twitch streamers of violations, demanding that they stop promoting illegal gambling. The SGA has warned that strict measures will be taken against those who ignore such notifications.

Not just warnings, but real actions

Recently, the Swedish gambling regulator fined three major game providers for supplying services to unlicensed online casino operators in the country: Quickspin AB (owned by Playtech), Kalamba Games, and EGT Digital Gaming. Meanwhile, Playson was investigated but was cleared of violations and avoided sanctions.

Earlier, the SGA also banned Bitx Operations N.V. and Ryker B.V. from operating in the country, as neither company holds a Swedish license. According to AskGamblers, these companies run the following online casino brands: Playbet.io (Bitx Operations N.V.), Freshbet (Ryker B.V.), Jackbit (Ryker B.V.), and CasinOK (Ryker B.V.).

Additionally, the SGA has previously blocked the domains of other operators, including Duelbits and Superb.bet, Gxmble, Palm Casino, Seven Casino, Slottio, Wildzy, Winstler, Winzter, and Solidlotto.

What comes next

Authorities have already announced plans to introduce criminal liability for violations of existing restrictions. As part of the proposed reforms, the criteria for determining whether an operator is targeting Swedish players will also change.

Currently, targeting is assessed based on factors such as:

• use of the Swedish language on the website,

• Swedish-language customer support,

• use of the local currency,

• local payment solutions.

However, if the reforms take effect, the rule will be much simpler: if a Swedish user can access the site, then it is considered targeted at Sweden.

Conclusion

If the proposed changes are approved by parliament, they could come into force on January 1, 2027. Combined with stricter criminal legislation, this will make life much more difficult for offshore gambling operators in the Swedish market.