Australian gambling regulator adds 20 illegal gambling sites to the blocked list

In an escalating enforcement action, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has implemented stricter measures against illegal online gambling sites and online casinos.

Playing a key role in protecting Australian consumers, the ACMA’s intense crackdown resulted in the blocking of various unauthorized digital online gambling brands like “LottoGo” and “PWBet”.

ACMA’s move comes after receiving multitudes of complaints from disgruntled consumers.

In response, they obtained court orders to block a total of 18 illegal gambling sites, an enforcement action that follows Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

These disruptive exercises are being carried out in collaboration with internet service providers.

ACMA’s strategy emphasizes the necessity for regulatory bodies to protect consumers from potentially damaging online activities.

ACMA Chair, Nerida O’Loughlin, described it as an essential step to ensure Australians are guarded against illegal offshore gambling sites.

“These sites are illegal in Australia, and they’re ripping off Australian players,” O’Loughlin stated, reiterating the dangers of such sites to the consumers.

The action demonstrates the ACMA’s commitment to minimizing harm from unregulated online betting and online pokies, which is on the rise nationally due to gambling addiction and financial loss associated with illegal gambling activities.

The ACMA’s actions have already set a preventative tone, having blocked a total of 299 illegal gambling websites since 2017.

If an Australian consumer comes across an illegal gambling site, they can file a complaint through ACMA, which will then investigate the site.

Online bookmakers are the only licensed Australian betting sites allowed to operate in Australia.

There a no online casinos licensed by Australia to accept Australian gamblers.

The regulatory body encourages those who have placed bets on these sites to withdraw their money, further ensuring consumer protection.

Under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, ‘interactive’ online gambling services such as ‘in-play’ sports betting, casino-style games and poker are prohibited to be offered to someone located in Australia.

Since 2017, the ACMA has taken a tougher stance against illegal online gambling websites, with a total of 299 websites blocked so far.