ACMA continues to grow list of blocked illegal gambling websites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the independent commonwealth statutory regulatory body regulating media and communications services in Australia, continues to monitor illegal gambling.

On Thursday, ACMA requested additional illegal online gambling websites to be blocked.

More illegal gambling websites blocked

In November 2019, the Authority started requesting blocks after enforcing a range of new regulations that sought to protect Australians from illegal online gambling.

Since the first blocking request, ACMA has blocked nearly 1,800 illegal gambling and affiliate websites.

Most recently, ACMA asked internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to more illegal gambling and affiliate websites.

In a press release, the media and communications watchdog said it requested ISPs to block the access to Casea and Crown96, two websites, which it said, operated in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

An investigation prior to the blocking request determined the websites violated the local regulations.

ACMA reminded the public that even if some websites may look legitimate, they may be lacking important consumer protections.

It encouraged gamblers to check its register of legal gambling operators to make sure they are using the services of a company with a license to operate in Australia.

In case consumers are using illegal gambling websites, they are at risk of losing their money, ACMA added.

Since Australia implemented new rules against illegal online gambling in 2017, more than 230 illegal gambling service providers have voluntarily discontinued their offering locally.

ACMA also said that users interested in additional information on online gambling can check its website and if necessary, they can file a complaint against an illegal gambling website.

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