ACMA Bans a Dozen More Illegal Websites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken action against more unlicensed gambling websites in the country. The watchdog’s latest ban wave saw it block another dozen websites.

According to the authority, the sites in question included Playzilla, Wazamba, Zet Casino, Slots Palace, Nomini, Casinia, SG Casino, Fez Bet, Buran Casino, Spin Better, Golden Bet and Clash.gg. The ACMA explained that had violated Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

For reference, website blocking is one of several enforcement options available to the ACMA and is designed to protect Australian consumers from exposure to illegal gambling services. Unlicensed sites undermine the integrity of the legal market and expose their customers to financial risks and gambling harm.

The ACMA is allowed to block websites that provide prohibited interactive gambling services (such as online casino games) to Australian players, provide an unlicensed regulated interactive gambling service or publish ads for such services.

The Watchdog Continues to Shield Australian Consumers from Illegal Content

The ACMA has been working hard to protect the Australian market from unlicensed competition ever since November 2019 when it issued its first blocking request. Since then, the Australian watchdog has issued blocking requests against a whopping 926 illegal gambling and affiliate websites.

In addition, ACMA’s actions have convinced more than 220 illegal operators to willingly pull out of the Australian gambling market.

The ACMA reminded consumers to be vigilant and make sure that they don’t engage in illegitimate gambling activities. The regulator warned that offshore operators rarely offer sufficient levels of consumer protections, exposing customers to higher risks of gambling harm.

In addition, Australian authorities cannot intervene if an unlicensed operator decides to not pay out winnings or if something else goes wrong. The ACMA urged Australian players to familiarize themselves with its register to make sure that they are familiar with the legal gambling operators in the country.

In other news, the ACMA recently slammed the gambling giants Entain, bet365 and Sportsbet over violations of its in-play betting rules. For reference, Australia prohibits in-play betting on sports matches, save for a few limited exceptions.

However, the ACMA decided not to impose sanctions on the three operators as it acknowledged their quick reaction.