ACMA flags 11 more gambling sites operating illegally in Australia

Late last week, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) raised red flags against 11 online gambling platforms.

According to the federal watchdog, Greenspin, Slotman, Jeetcity, Betibet, Candyland Casino, Thunderpick, Golden Lion, Digits 7, Sector 777, New Vegas and PayID Pokies have been operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

In response to the breaches, ACMA has formally requested Australian internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to all the mentioned casino sites.

The authority has the power to make such requests when an operator provides prohibited interactive gambling services to Australian online casino customers.

Blocking orders can also be issued for websites engaged in online gambling without a valid licence.

Since ACMA initiated its first blocking request in November 2019, a total of 893 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked.

Additionally, 220 illicit services have exited the Australian market since the authority began enforcing new rules against illegal offshore gambling in 2017.

“Website blocking is one of a range of enforcement options to protect Australians against illegal online gambling,” stated ACMA.

The authority also issued a reminder to consumers that even seemingly legitimate services are unlikely to have essential customer protections, putting Australians at risk of losing their money when using illegal gambling platforms.