Betting Sites Without CRUKS

What is CRUKS?

CRUKS is a nationwide exclusion register for gambling used across all licensed sportsbooks in the Netherlands. It was introduced in 2021 by the KSA to track and hold information on individuals dealing with problem gambling.

CRUKS’ main purpose is to help the government easily identify problem gamblers in the country and, in return, offer them the right support. This support can take different forms.

In some cases, it may involve temporary exclusion from all gambling activities for at least six months. In others, it could mean a direct referral to rehabilitation centres or organizations that specialize in problem gambling. Either way, the system works for your own good.

Here’s how Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen(CRUKS) works:

Registration

If you ever feel like gambling is starting to mess with your routine or peace of mind, you can choose to put yourself on the list. This is what’s known as voluntary registration.

In short, you acted on your own conscience. You felt betting was creeping into areas it shouldn’t, and decided to pause. Not just by willpower, but with a system that makes sure you stay away until your break is over.

Instead of hoping you won’t log back in, CRUKS locks you out. You won’t be able to access any licensed Dutch gambling site until your sabbatical lapses.

Now, not everyone enters CRUKS by choice. The government, through the KSA, can also add you to the database under what’s known as involuntary registration.

As mentioned earlier, the government quietly monitors betting activity across all licensed bookmakers. If something feels off, operators are required to report and present your details for registration. You might just wake up one day and realise you’ve been blocked from all licensed Dutch gambling platforms.

In some cases, a concerned friend or family member can also file a request. If the KSA reviews it and finds grounds, they can add you to CRUKS even without your consent. So yes, it’s not that hard to end up in the system.

Bookmakers and CRUKS

CRUKS is enforced at the bookie level, with sportsbooks required by the KSA to automatically screen every punter before allowing access. Before anything else, you must submit your BSN-linked documents for verification. And this entails the bookie checking your name against the CRUKS register.

If there’s a match, you’re automatically blocked from betting. If not, you’re cleared and allowed in. In simple terms, the CRUKS system creates a direct verification link between the national exclusion database and the sportsbooks you choose to register with. Therefore, there is no way through for those already registered.

Now, to some punters, CRUKS feels unfair. Imagine you just wanted a short 2-month break, so you signed up for CRUKS, only to realise later it locks you out for 6 months. You had no idea about the mandatory exclusion period. You're now forced to self-exclude for half a year, without any way to change, cancel, or shorten it.

This is why most punters find ways to get around the system and enjoy a restriction-free betting experience. And to be honest, you’ll only find that in offshore betting sites that accept Dutch players, and there are quite a few of them.

Malta Gaming Authority

The Malta Gaming Authority, commonly known as the MGA, was founded in 2001. It’s considered one of the leading regulatory bodies regarding licensing and protection of sports bettors and gamblers at large.

Over 120 betting sites have an operating permit from this authority. Noticeably, most MGA-licensed sportsbooks don’t accept cryptocurrencies. Other payment methods are available, though.

Licenses from the MGA rank among the most prestigious ones within the betting market. They can be issued for casinos and sportsbooks, among other forms of gaming activities. The authority makes sure all licensees follow strict rules and regulations.

Besides licensing, the agency has also invested in responsible betting. It ensures its licensees offer safer betting tools such as self-exclusion (not CRUKS).

Curacao eGaming

Curacao eGaming granted its first licences in 1996. This makes it one of the oldest regulators. Curacao licences are quite sought after because they are cheap and not hard to obtain.

There are 300+ Curacao-licensed betting sites. Unlike the MGA, most sportsbooks with a permit from Curacao are crypto-friendly. That means you can transact in Bitcoin or other popular digital coins.

Despite its lax regulations, Curacao provides some basic player safeguards. For example, it requires fair gaming and secure transactions. Besides that, it has a dedicated page for filing complaints against sportsbook operators.

Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA)

The Gibraltar Regulatory Authority came into being in 2000. It’s reputed to have one of the most demanding licensing procedures and high standards. Gibraltar regulates online betting activities to ensure bookies operate within set rules and standards.

Licenses issued by this commission are prestigious. The Authority also prioritizes players' protection and a policy of fair practices.

The GRA doesn’t enjoy the popularity of Curacao and the MGA. We say that because it has few licensees, just above 40.

The authority provides a sound platform for dispute resolution that helps in the effective resolution of customer complaints.

To file a complaint against a bookie, head to the communication section at the official GRA’s website. You’ll see the consumer complaints option here.

Kahnawake Gaming Commission

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission came into existence in 1996. It regulates all gambling activities within the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake, including online betting. The Commission has some of the strictest regulations and bettor protection measures.

The licenses from this authority are highly reputable all over the world. Fair play, responsible betting, and secure transactions are just some of the very strict standards it enforces.

This regulator also addresses issues to do with gambling harms. It ensures its licensees provide tools and resources to bettors so that they can have control over their betting habits.

Unlike the MGA, most sportsbooks with a permit from this regulator accept cryptocurrencies.

Anjouan Gambling Board

Established in 1999 The Anjouan Gambling Board is one of the oldest online betting regulators. Its licenses are quite in demand since they are inexpensive and processed fast.

The regulator covers a broad range of gambling activities that include casinos and sports betting. However, there isn't that much strict supervision, compared to more developed jurisdictions.

The licensing process itself is rather straightforward, therefore easy for new operators. Notably, the Anjouan Corporate Services is the only agent for licensing applications.

Despite the lenient regulations, Anjouan makes sure that the basics are there in place to protect players: fair betting services on offer and transactions secure. It makes it viable for operators who want to enter the market quickly.

Soccer

Call it football or whatever you prefer, but soccer is the most popular sport for betting worldwide. In fact, 70% of the global sports betting market is focused on this sport.

Its global appeal and numerous leagues provide endless betting opportunities. Punters enjoy various markets like match outcomes and goal scorers.

The sport’s unpredictability adds excitement to every match. Soccer’s extensive media coverage enhances the betting experience. Live streaming options attract millions of bettors globally.

In-play betting is particularly popular in this sport. Bettors can place wagers as the match unfolds. This dynamic betting style adds to the thrill.

Basketball

Invented in 1891, Basketball, especially the NBA, is a favorite among bettors. A large percentage of the 3.3 billion fans bet on this sport at non-CRUKS sportsbooks.

The fast-paced nature and frequent scoring make it exciting. Bettors can wager on point spreads and player performances.

European leagues also draw significant betting interest. Live betting is popular in basketball, adding to the thrill. The sport’s popularity extends beyond the NBA.

Player props are a unique betting option in basketball. Punters can wager on individual player stats, which adds another layer of engagement.

Horse Racing

Horse racing has a long-standing tradition in the betting world. The excitement of race day creates a unique atmosphere.

At non-CRUKS bookies, major events attract substantial betting activity with various wager types. These include Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and The Royal Ascot.

Live streaming and race analysis engage bettors further. As a punter, you can place win, show and exotic wagers.

Handicapping is a popular strategy in this sport. Bettors analyze horses’ past performance to make more informed bets.

American Football

American football, particularly the NFL, is immensely popular for betting. It was invented in the USA in 1869.

Structured schedules and high-profile games draw significant interest. At sports betting sites without CRUKS, you can place point spreads, money lines and prop bets, just to name a few markets.

The strategic nature enhances its betting appeal. Extensive data and analysis are available. Live betting options add to the excitement.

Fantasy football also boosts betting interest. Punters create teams and compete weekly. This adds a social element to football betting.

MiFinity

Founded in 2002, MiFinity operates as a global payment gateway. It has a valid license from the Financial Conduct Authority. This makes it among the safest e-wallets in the market, hence trusted by punters.

It is available in more than 170 countries, including the Netherlands. Not only that, it accepts over 15 currencies, including the Euro.

Efficiency has made it quite popular among non-CRUKS betting sites online. It processes deposits instantly, and withdrawals take less than 24 hours.

This banking option is mobile-friendly. Having an application for both iOS and Android, it allows you to manage your funds anywhere, at any time.

Bitcoin

Cryptocurrencies, with Bitcoin leading the way, are legal in the Netherlands. Bitcoin is an online, digital, decentralized cryptocurrency introduced in 2009.

This banking method offers anonymity and security during the entire online transaction flow. It works on a peer-to-peer network, and hence, its usage is quite popular.

The speed can vary, but in general, Bitcoin processes deposits instantly. Withdrawals take at most 10 minutes.

Bitcoin mobile wallets are a dime a dozen. They promote flexibility in managing your funds and accessing them from anywhere. Plus, they are secure and efficient, making BTC a convenient payment method for a mobile bettor.

Paysafecard

Operating under Paysafe Group, Paysafecard debuted in 2000. It’s a prepaid online payment method that guarantees anonymity and safety. The Financial Conduct Authority regulates it.

With this banking method, you can be sure of instant deposits. You can purchase one of its affordable vouchers to fund your betting account.

Paysafecard allows the buying of vouchers via local shops to use online. The convenience of not having to open a bank account or credit card makes it more attractive.

There’s no need to register for an account when making deposits.

To withdraw your winnings, you must use myPaysafe, the e-wallet variant of paysafecard. It requires an account. Unfortunately, most non-CRUKS betting sites don’t support it, meaning you’ll have to select a different payout option.

Visa

You’ve probably heard of or even used Visa. It’s a trustworthy financial services company founded in 1958.

Virtually all non-CRUKS betting sites accept this payment method. Its wide network means that Visa guarantees secure transactions.

Deposits via Visa are usually instant. Not all sportsbooks without CRUKS support it for withdrawals, though. For those that do, expect your winnings to take 2 to 3 days.

Most non-CRUKS betting sites don’t charge transaction fees when using this banking method. That means you’re likely to keep most of your winnings.

Jeton

One of the most popular electronic wallets at sportsbooks without CRUKS is Jeton. It debuted in 2016, and has a permit from the Financial Conduct Authority.

Jeton boasts 50+ currencies, including EUR. It also works with over 70 payment methods, enabling smooth transactions between accounts.

Depositing via Jeton is instant. Withdrawals reflect in less than 24 hours. Such efficiency is a plus for any bettor who wants to have timely access to their money.

The Jeton iOS and Android mobile application makes managing your wallet easier. You can download it on the Play Store or App Store.

Is There a Way to Bypass CRUKS?

Bypassing CRUKS is technically possible but not recommended for Dutch bettors. CRUKS is designed to protect you from betting addiction and financial harm.

Attempting to bypass it undermines these protective measures and can be risky.

Bettors may bypass CRUKS using VPNs or proxies. This method masks your location so that it seems you are outside the Netherlands.

However, if your IP address leaks, this may lead to account suspension. And that’s the least of your worries. The bookmaker may decide to nullify all your winnings and send back any deposits minus a 10% commission (or more).

Another method, which is perhaps the safest, involves registering on offshore betting sites. Most of them are non-CRUKS because they operate outside Dutch regulations. While they may offer more freedom, they lack the safety measures of KSA-licensed bookies.

Using false information to create accounts is another potential bypass method. This involves providing incorrect personal details during registration. However, this is illegal and can result in severe penalties.

Bypassing CRUKS is not advisable for responsible betting. The system exists to ensure your safety and promote healthy betting habits. Respecting these measures is crucial for a safe betting experience.

Are there penalties for bypassing CRUKS?

Bypassing CRUKS can lead to several penalties for Dutch bettors. First, using false information or VPNs to access non-CRUKS bookies is illegal. This can result in fines and legal action from Dutch authorities.

Secondly, if caught, bettors may face account suspension or permanent bans from betting sites. This not only affects their current accounts but also future access to other sportsbooks. Additionally, any winnings obtained through bypassing CRUKS can be forfeited.

Lastly, doing such things nullifies all protective measures for safe betting. It increases the risks of addiction to betting and financial losses. So, adherence to the regulations by CRUKS is crucial to make sure that betting happens in safety.

For non-CRUKS bookmakers, there’s always a self-exclusion program and other safe betting tools like deposit, bet and loss limits. Use these so things don’t get out of hand.

CRUKS Vs Non CRUKS Betting Sites

What are the major differences between CRUKS and non-CRUKS bookies? Below is a comparison table summarizing what they offer:

Responsible Betting at Sportsbooks Without CRUKS

Betting without CRUKS gives you space. There are no hard limits, no mandatory checks, and no systems flagging your activity. You decide when to deposit, how much to stake, and when to walk away. For many, that freedom is the reason they turn to these sportsbooks in the first place.

That freedom, however, places everything in your hands.The structure is gone. What remains is choice, and the weight that comes with it.

These bookies won’t push back when your betting starts to shift. They won’t remind you that your last five wagers were chases. They won’t ask why your deposits have doubled. They won’t lock your account when the signs are clear.

In short, the responsibility ends with you. You either pause when something feels off or keep going until the damage is done. And yes, most of these sportsbooks offer tools aimed at promoting responsible betting. Still, no one will recommend or push you to use them. That’s what freedom looks like here.

The challenge is, betting often stays exciting even as the line starts to blur. What begins as light wagering grows into something harder to walk away from. You tell yourself it’s under control, until you start betting more than you planned. You try to recover what’s lost. You begin to chase the feeling you had at the start. Over time, your attention narrows, your balance dips, and the weight of it all starts to show–quietly, but steadily.

No one signs up to bet, anticipating such a fate. That’s why you need to tame the sense of freedom these bookies give you and take control of your betting behaviour. In that state of awareness, you’ll easily pick up cues, when to pause, when to stop, or when to seek assistance.

Below are expert guidelines to make sports betting more fun and responsible. Remember, the aim is to have fun while having a safe and controlled betting experience.

• Legal age: The legal gambling age in the Netherlands is 18 years. Don’t register at a non-CRUKS betting site if you’re underage.
• Budget: Come up with your exact budget well in advance before placing the first bet. Let this be an amount you can comfortably afford to lose and not use money meant to pay for your bills.
• Deposit limits: Use the deposit limit features available with most online betting sites. Setting an outer limit on the amount to be deposited in a week or a month helps to keep your spending in order.
• Keep track of time: It is pretty easy to get carried away with all the excitement. Use the timer to remind you to break and not get into extended betting.
• Seek help: If betting has become a burden, you have every right to seek help. There are organizations, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which provide resources and a network for people in need.
• Reality checks: Some sites provide reality checkers. These are pop-ups that remind users to take a break or review their betting activity to keep them conscious of their activities.