ACMA Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling, Blocks 3 Offshore Sites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) announced that it had requested the blocking of more illegal offshore gambling websites. Internet service providers have thus been required to stop access to the sites’ associated domains.

According to the authority, the sires in question operated in violation of Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The media regulator then confirmed that the sites it has issued orders against include the following:

• A Big Candy
• Jackpoty
• John Vegas Casino

This is the latest ban wave and aligns with the ACMA’s ongoing efforts to protect Australian customers from the dangers of unregulated gambling and predatory offshore websites. Earlier this year, the ACMA issued blocking orders against some 18 unlicensed operators amid the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Players Should Avoid Offshore Websites, ACMA Warns

Website blocking, according to the ACMA, is one of the most reliable enforcement options when it comes to protecting Australians from illegal online gambling operators. According to the authority, it has so far issued blocking requests against some 995 illegal gambling and affiliate websites.

In addition, official ACMA data shows that over 220 illegal services have willingly pulled out of the Australian market since the authority started enforcing Australia’s new offshore gambling rules.

The ACMA further reminded consumers to familiarize themselves with the licensed gambling websites and avoid engaging with illegal operators. The authority once again pointed out that a full list of all wagering services licensed to operate in Australia is available on its website.

The ACMA also noted that even if an offshore gambling service looks legitimate, it is unlikely to offer gambling safeguards that shield consumers from excessive gambling. This makes offshore websites especially dangerous to vulnerable consumers who are at risk of getting harmed.

Speaking of Australia, the state of Victoria is now looking to rеform its gambling rules in order to shield players from excessive gambling. To that end, Victoria is set to introduce an AUD 50 loss limit to all poker machines in the state. While the limit will be able to be modified by carded players, it is expected to lower the harm rates.

In addition, Victorian authorities are planning to overhaul pokies venues’ tax breaks after reports that such properties have been using their social contribution money to upgrade their properties.