Swedish Gambling Authority Fines Three Gaming Software Providers Over Black Market Distribution
The Swedish Gambling Authority (SGA) has taken decisive action against gaming software suppliers that provided content to unlicensed operators. Quickspin AB, a Swedish studio owned by Playtech, received the highest penalty of SEK650,000 (€58,800) alongside a formal warning after its games were traced on black market websites through third-party content partners. Despite Quickspin swiftly removing the content and updating compliance measures, the SGA deemed the breach serious, underscoring that suppliers remain responsible for preventing unlicensed access.
Kalamba Games faced a SEK60,000 (€5,430) fine after its titles appeared on restricted sites, despite implementing geo-blocking. The regulator maintained that licensees are accountable for all distribution, including through partners beyond their control. EGT Digital Gaming received the minimum statutory penalty of SEK5,000 (€452) due to indirect breaches from international partners, further highlighting the importance of rigorous monitoring and compliance. Playson, reviewed in the same enforcement sweep, was cleared of any violations.
These fines are part of a broader regulatory crackdown targeting unlicensed gambling in Sweden. Since 2023, all software suppliers must hold a licence and cannot provide content to operators targeting the Swedish market without proper authorisation. Violations can result in fines up to 10% of turnover or, in severe cases, licence revocation.
This latest enforcement follows precedent cases such as Hacksaw Studios, where penalties were adjusted by the Swedish Administrative Court, acknowledging mitigating measures like geo-blocking while upholding warnings. These actions collectively reinforce the critical responsibility of gaming software providers to maintain compliance, implement robust monitoring, and prevent their content from reaching unlicensed operators. The message to the industry is clear: proactive compliance is not optional but essential for continued access to regulated markets.
