Norway authorizes DNS blockage for iGaming web sites
Norway Enforces DNS Blocking for Unlicensed Gambling Sites
As of 2025, Norway has enforced Domain Name System (DNS) blocking for unlicensed online gambling websites as part of its amended Gambling Act. The Norwegian gambling authority, Lotteritilsynet, has ordered the blocking of dozens of illegal offshore gambling sites to restrict access within Norway.
The DNS blocking initiative is aimed at enhancing consumer protection, as the Norwegian Lottery Authority believes that this method provides better protection for consumers. The targeted websites are believed to be targeting the Norwegian market.
The public consultation for the DNS blocking initiative took place in early 2023. As of now, about 57 illegal gambling websites have been specifically targeted for blocking. Enforcement is supported by browser-based safeguards to increase effectiveness.
Some offshore sites have found ways to avoid blocks by retaining a .com domain but removing Norwegian language content on their websites. However, services like Google Safe Browsing and Microsoft Defender SmartScreen are also deployed to further hinder access to illegal gambling sites by alerting or blocking users when they try to access flagged domains.
The DNS blocking initiative is part of a broader strategy to regulate and protect the Norwegian gambling market. The Norwegian Lottery Authority has been granted the power to direct Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to block access to unlicensed gambling websites. The authority also has the power to levy financial penalties on ISPs that do not enforce a DNS blocking directive.
The amendment to Norway's Gambling Act expands the powers of the Norwegian Lottery Authority. The blocking initiative is expected to restrict access to high-risk gambling activities and to be an additional tool for the Norwegian Lottery Authority in maintaining a secure and regulated gambling environment. The DNS blocking initiative is intended to target unlicensed gambling websites that pose a high risk to consumers.
In summary, the DNS blocking initiative is a multi-layered regulatory approach aimed at protecting the licensed market and Norwegian players from illegal operators. The initiative is expected to take effect in the current year.
In the amended Gambling Act of Norway, the initiative to enforce DNS blocking on unlicensed online gambling sites serves as a strategic move to regulate and maintain a secure and controlled business environment for the Norwegian gambling market. This technology-driven approach, supported by browser-based safeguards, aims to restrict access to high-risk finance activities associated with unlicensed gambling websites, ultimately providing better protection for consumers.
