ACMA Continues to Block Illegal Online Gambling Websites

Currently, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the country’s regulatory body in charge of the regulation of communications, radiocommunications and broadcasting, oversees the offering of gambling online. As a proactive measure, the Authority often enforces bans against operators who do not hold an Australian license, asking internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to such illegal offshore gambling websites.

This proactive approach has been in place since November 2019, when ACMA made its first request to block illegal online gambling providers. The agency is granted this authority as it enforces the country’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001, which prohibits access to gambling operators that do not hold a license, acknowledging that such companies breach the regulations.

In another move against the illegal online gambling sector, ACMA asked ISPs to block more illegal gambling websites. The enforcement action comes after an investigation uncovered that nearly a dozen websites offer their services without the required gambling license. As a result, ACMA asked ISPs to block access to Spicyjackpots, Zota Bet, Mr Pacho and Casino Infinity. The authority requested access to Lucky7even, 50 Crowns, Bitdreams and Rockwin to be blocked as well.

“The ACMA has requested that Australian internet service providers (ISPs) block more illegal gambling websites, after investigations found these services to be operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001,“

reads a statement released by ACMA

The Authority Remains Vigilant

The latest request expands further the number of illegal gambling and affiliate websites blocked over the last few years. Since it started operating, to date, the ACMA has made requests for the blocking of a whopping 945 illegal gambling, affiliate and offshore websites. Since the Authority started monitoring the online landscape in the country, some 221 illegal service providers have exited the market in the country.

ACMA said that websites that offer prohibited interactive gambling services to Australian customers, including online slots, in-play wagering on sports and online casinos can be subject to blocking. Additionally, online gambling operators that do not hold a license in the country can also be affected by the blocking requests.

The Authority reminded the public that the use of illegal or unlicensed gambling operators poses a risk considering that the consumers are not protected under Australian law. To help channel customers toward the legal sector, ACMA has compiled a list of operators who hold interactive gambling licenses. The list also includes licensed on-course bookmakers across the country.