ACMA Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Gambling with 11 New Website Blocks in Australia

The AMCA (Australian Communications and Media Authority) has intensified its efforts to limit illegal online gambling activities. In its latest move, ACMA has targeted 11 offshore websites, including Gspin, Slotman, Jeetcity, Betibet, Candyland Casino, Thunderpick, Golden Lion, Digits 7, Sector 777, New Vegas, and PayID Pokies. These sites are operating in contravention of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, a key piece of legislation designed to regulate online gambling activities in Australia.

Enforcing Blocking Orders

Following the security breaches, ACMA has requested Australian ISPs to block access to all the mentioned sites. Such actions are within ACMA's purview when operators provide prohibited interactive gambling services to Australian customers or operate online gambling platforms without proper licensing.

Impact and Scale of ACMA's Actions

Since initiating its first blocking request in November 2019, ACMA's crackdown has led to the blocking of 893 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. Furthermore, since 2017, when ACMA began enforcing new illegal offshore gambling rules, 220 illegal services have ceased operations in Australia. ACMA's aggressive enforcement strategy serves as a stern warning and a protective measure for Australian consumers against the risks associated with illegal online gambling.

Consumer Protection at the Forefront

ACMA's primary concern remains the protection of Australian consumers. The authority emphasizes that despite the outward appearance of legitimacy, illegal gambling services often lack critical customer protections. This deficiency poses significant risks, including the potential loss of money for Australians using these services.

Recent Blocking Orders

This new set of blocking orders follows previous actions by ACMA, including the blocking of Wild Blaster and BetUS in October, which were also found to be offering illegal gambling services in Australia.

Broader Regulatory Landscape: Credit Card Ban

In related regulatory news, the Australian Senate recently approved a comprehensive ban on using credit cards for online gambling. This near-universal ban aligns with existing prohibitions at land-based venues, effectively placing a blanket ban across all forms of credit card gambling in Australia. A six-month transition period has been announced, allowing for alignment with the new regulations, set to commence upon the bill's royal assent.

Australia Enacts Comprehensive Online Gambling Credit Card Ban

Earlier this month, the Australian Senate passed the Interactive Gambling Amendment (Credit and Other Measures) Bill 2023, effectively extending the ban on credit card use from land-based gambling venues to online platforms. This landmark bill, set to be implemented within six months, encompasses not just credit cards but also digital currencies. It aims to foster responsible gambling by imposing hefty fines for non-compliance and equipping the Australian Communications and Media Authority with more extraordinary enforcement powers. Despite this progress, some gambling types like lotteries and keno remain excluded, sparking debate over the need for more inclusive reforms.

ACMA's Firm Stance Against Illegal Gambling

ACMA's latest enforcement action and the broader regulatory changes underscore Australia's commitment to maintaining a safe and fair online gambling environment. The authority's proactive measures are pivotal in safeguarding consumers and ensuring compliance within the industry.