Australian Communications Regulator Continues Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Websites – MoneyCheck

TLDR:

• ACMA blocks 4 more illegal gambling and affiliate websites
• Total of 1,026 illegal sites blocked since November 2019
• 220+ illegal services have left Australian market due to enforcement
• Blocked sites include Casino Australia Online, Pokies.bet, Pokiesman, and Smart Pokies
• ACMA warns consumers about lack of protection on illegal gambling sites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has stepped up its efforts to combat illegal online gambling, ordering internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to four more websites.

This latest action, announced on August 21, 2024, is part of an ongoing campaign to protect Australian consumers from unauthorized gambling services.

The newly blocked sites include:

• Casino Australia Online
• Pokies.bet
• Pokiesman
• Smart Pokies

These platforms were found to be operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which prohibits certain types of online gambling services in Australia.

Since November 2019, when the ACMA first began requesting ISPs to block illegal gambling websites, a total of 1,026 sites have been restricted. This includes both direct gambling services and affiliate marketing websites that promote such illegal operations.

The ACMA’s actions have had a significant impact on the gambling market in Australia. Over 220 unauthorized services have ceased operations in the country since the enforcement of offshore gambling rules began. This exodus demonstrates the effectiveness of the regulator’s multi-pronged approach to tackling the issue.

Website blocking is just one of several tools at the ACMA’s disposal. The authority can take action against services that provide prohibited interactive gambling options to Australian customers, such as online casinos, online slot machines, and platforms that allow in-play online sports betting.

The ACMA targets unlicensed regulated interactive gambling services and those publishing advertisements for prohibited or unlicensed gambling services in Australia.

The ACMA has issued a reminder to consumers about the risks associated with using these illegal platforms. Even if a service appears legitimate, it is unlikely to offer important consumer protections. This means that Australian laws may not be able to help if something goes wrong, such as a service provider withholding winnings.

To help Australians make informed choices, the ACMA maintains a register of licensed wagering services that are authorized to operate in the country. Consumers are encouraged to check this list before engaging with any online gambling platform.

The recent blockings come amid broader discussions about gambling advertising in Australia. While the focus of this article is on illegal offshore operators, it’s worth noting that there are ongoing debates about potential restrictions on gambling advertisements across various media platforms.

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