SGA bans Simba NV for unlicensed gambling in Sweden

In a decisive move to safeguard its regulated gambling market, the Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) has swiftly enacted a ban on the Curaçao-licensed operator Simba NV. This ban stems from the operator’s unlawful targeting of Swedish players without the necessary local license.

Following a meticulous investigation, the SGA discovered that several platforms owned by Simba NV—including betblast.com, slotmonster.com, and foxygold.com—were not only accessible in Sweden but were also being promoted through Swedish-language affiliate marketing strategies. Such actions directly contravene the nation’s strict gambling regulations.

The SGA’s findings revealed a concerning trend: these websites were automatically configured to recognize users’ geographical locations, selecting Sweden based on IP addresses. Moreover, instances were noted where Swedish-speaking influencers, including prominent Twitch streamers advocating for foxygold.com, were utilized to attract local consumers.

Despite its licensing in Curaçao, Simba NV has failed to acquire the requisite Swedish license mandated by the Gambling Act to operate legally within Sweden’s jurisdiction. The investigation unveiled at least 15 active websites managed by the operator, highlighting a systemic approach to non-compliance. These included wreckbet.com, thehighroller.com, puppybet.com, klikkikasino.com, and slotit.com, among others.

In response to these violations, the SGA emphasized its commitment to consumer protection and the integrity of Sweden’s regulated gambling landscape. Consequently, the prohibition was enforced with immediate effect. While Simba NV did not engage during the investigation, it maintains the right to appeal the SGA’s ruling. This case underscores the critical importance of adhering to local regulations in the fast-evolving gambling industry, as authorities become increasingly vigilant in enforcing compliance to protect players and maintain the sanctity of the market.