The Australian Communications and Media authority (ACMA) has ordered internet service providers to block four more offshore websites offering unlicensed gambling services and products.
The sites in question, Bao Casino, Pokie Place, Reels of Joy and Ozwin Casino were the subject of an investigation by the ACMA after the authority received several complaints about the services and products available. The investigation concluded that all four websites were in clear breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
The move follows the requested blocking of 10 illegal gambling website in March. This brings the total number of unlicensed gambling sites blocked by ACMA since November 2019 to 263.
The latest blocks were announced on the ACMA website where the authority stated:
“Website blocking provides a valuable opportunity to alert the public to illegal gambling services through the messaging that appears when there is an attempt to access the site.
ACMA is reminding consumers that even if a service looks legitimate, its unlikely to have important customer protections. This means Australians who use illegal gambling services risk losing their money.”
Since 2017, ACMA action against unlicensed gambling operators has seen over 130 websites pull out of the Australian market.
Some online gambling affiliates (digital marketers who make money by referring customers to gambling sites) have reacted to the news calling it “censorship” – and an effort to drive offshore gaming groups from the Australian market.
Based in London, Natasha is a former sports journalist with experience working for some of the biggest athletes & brands in the world of sports and iGaming.