Australia Blocks 10 Online Gambling Operators for Illegal Activity
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has instructed internet service providers to block access to ten new illegal online gambling and affiliate websites. The action targets unlicensed platforms and deceptive sites.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has formally requested that internet service providers (ISPs) block access to ten additional illegal online gambling and affiliate marketing websites. The directive was issued on Monday.
The ACMA's decision follows investigations confirming that these websites were operating in violation of Australia's Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The blocked sites include unlicensed betting platforms and a domain that was impersonating the legitimate LightningBet brand.
ACMA has been actively combating illegal online gambling in Australia. Since its first blocking request in November 2019, the regulator has successfully restricted a total of 1,774 illegal gambling and affiliate sites. Furthermore, its enforcement efforts have led to over 230 unlicensed operators voluntarily withdrawing from the Australian market.
The authority is reminding consumers that offshore gambling websites offer minimal consumer protection and legal recourse. ACMA advises players to verify the licensing status of any online wagering service through its public register before engaging with it. Using unlicensed sites carries significant risks, including the potential loss of funds without legal remedy.