ACMA upholds ongoing crusade against offshore online casinos

Australia’s principal media regulator, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), continues its relentless campaign against unauthorised offshore casinos.

The unwanted digital playgrounds have been flagged for their provision of prohibited interactive gambling services to Australian consumers.

The ACMA issued fresh blocking requests to local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) this week, targeting two illegal offshore platforms: Bao Casino and Pokie Place.

Such blocking orders reinforce ACMA’s overarching strategy to enhance consumer protection from fraudulent and unlawful online activities.

The blocking order action stems from ACMA’s authority under the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001.

This groundbreaking law empowers ACMA to compel ISPs to block access to specific websites offering illegal gambling services in Australia.

Online casinos remain the most common type of offshore service, with poker, lottery games, and sports betting also falling within the jurisdiction of these blocking requests.

Issuing 200-plus blocking requests since November 2019 marks a formidable effort led by ACMA.

This proactive approach has reportedly resulted in 130 illegal offshore services withdrawing from the Australian market.

The authority’s persistent drive underlines its clear message – offshore casinos operating without due authorization face stringent consequences.

The ACMA invites consumers to withdraw any cash deposited on such platforms and cautions them about potential fraudulent practices.

It also urges gamblers to seek help via its website if they are struggling with gambling addiction.

Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act was considered pioneering at the time of its introduction, designed to shield Aussie consumers from harmful and deceptive offshore gambling platforms.

Yet, two decades on, the battle wages with a new suite and surge of digital contenders.

Over the years, ACMA has become more adept at identifying and taking action against illegal gambling sites that flout Australian law.

As technology continues to evolve, the ACMA faces significant challenges in its mission to safeguard Australians from unauthorised online gambling.