ACMA Takes Decisive Action Against Offshore Gambling Platforms
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The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken decisive action against a new array of offshore gambling platforms.
The regulatory body, in an official statement available on its website, revealed that eight specific services have been engaging in offering games of chance and sports betting products to local users without obtaining the necessary licenses.
Additional Websites Violate IGA 2001
To provide some context, Australia’s online gaming regulations only allow for sports betting and strictly prohibit online casino operations. ACMA identified the following eight websites as having violated the nation’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and has consequently instructed Internet Service Providers to block them:
- JokaRoom
- AUDPokies888
- Aura Play
- Instant Casino
- Leon
- Rich Papa
- UUSpin
- Wild Pokies
Since initiating this campaign in 2019, ACMA has emerged as one of the most diligent regulatory entities globally, having added over 1,154 websites to its blacklist. Notably, approximately 200 services opted to exit the market before the commencement of ISP blocks, as ACMA warned of potential repercussions with overseas regulatory bodies, potentially impacting their licenses in jurisdictions where online casinos are permitted.
Despite the often protracted process involved in blocking a website, ACMA remains steadfast in its mission. The recent ban serves as a stark reminder to players to avoid engaging with offshore gambling services lacking the requisite licenses.
ACMA’s Deliberate but Gradual Approach
The authority has consistently urged the public to remain cautious of unlicensed platforms, emphasizing that even if a website appears legitimate, it might only be mimicking licensed services.
ACMA continues to advance its objective of dismantling the illegal gambling industry within the country. The regulator has recently published a review detailing its Q4 enforcement and investigative efforts.
Meanwhile, other nations, such as Brazil, have been rapidly expanding their list of illegal gambling sites, with thousands already included in the country’s blacklist.