The European Union has voted in favour of member states being able to restrict Internet gambling firms from conducting operations within state borders. Such a ban may be constituted if it is shown that crime and fraud are combated through such a move. It is said, however, that although Internet gambling operations may be restricted within one member state, that doesn’t prevent residents within another member state from utilising those services.

This decision by the EU has dealt a blow to the Internet gambling industry, but it is not hopeless. As it stands, the Netherlands are pursuing an expansion of gaming and betting. The Netherlands are also looking to encourage individuals to engage in online gaming activities. However, it is possible and has been ruled by the Dutch government to prohibit gaming through a specific operator if it is deemed that gambling through that operator poses an unusual risk to consumers. This is to prevent consumers from becoming victims of fraud. What the Dutch is working toward is controlled expansion of the betting and gaming sector, which is something the European Union favours. Many consumers have lost money through unregulated online gambling websites and there is not a way in which they can recover money that has been taken from them through unfair practices or through fraud.

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