DNS Blocking in Norway

In 2025, Norway introduced DNS blocking of illegal gambling websites as part of its efforts to safeguard players and uphold the country’s exclusive rights model for gambling.

Norway operates under an exclusive rights model, meaning that only operators with a national license or permission are legally permitted to offer gambling services within the country. Despite this, many foreign gambling companies continue to target the Norwegian market with both their services and marketing efforts.

To enhance player protection, the Norwegian Parliament implemented DNS blocking from 1 January 2025. Gambling services offered by unlicensed operators carry a significantly higher risk of gambling-related harm and typically lack the responsible gambling tools required of licensed providers.

What is DNS Blocking?

DNS blocking is a technical measure that redirects users who attempt to access illegal gambling websites. Instead of reaching the intended site, users are taken to a page hosted by their internet service provider. This page informs them that the website is blocked because it offers gambling services that are not legal in Norway.

The Norwegian Gambling Authority is responsible for monitoring the market and issuing binding instructions to internet service providers regarding which websites must be blocked.

The list of blocked websites can be found here.

Which Websites Are Blocked?

To avoid DNS blocking, a gambling website must refrain from targeting the Norwegian market. Each website is assessed individually, based on the following criteria:

• Whether the website is available in Norwegian or uses login methods through digital platforms that include Norwegian elements (e.g., Steam, Roblox).
• Whether the website supports transactions in Norwegian currency (NOK).
• Whether the site displays the Norwegian flag, references “Norway,” or uses the country code +47 for phone numbers during registration.
• Whether customer service is available in Norwegian.
• Whether the company operating the site is based in Norway or has Norwegian ties (e.g., a Norwegian postal address).
• Whether the site is advertised through Norwegian media channels.
• Whether Norwegian individuals are used in promotional materials.
• Whether gambling proceeds are earmarked for Norwegian organizations.
• Whether the site refers to Norwegian support services.
• Whether the operator attempts to circumvent Norway’s payment blocking system, which prohibits banks and payment institutions from facilitating transactions with illegal operators.

For Gambling Companies Wishing to Exit the Norwegian Market

Several major gambling companies have already withdrawn from the Norwegian market. Companies that wish to exit must meet specific requirements; simply switching the website language to English is insufficient.

We provide guidance to gambling operators seeking to cease offering services in violation of Norwegian law.

Contact us for more information.