Australia: ACMA requests internet service providers to block 12 illegal gambling websites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has requested that internet service providers (ISPs) block 12 illegal gambling websites after investigations found the services to be operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. 

The latest sites blocked include Playzilla, Wazamba, Zet Casino, Slots Palace, Nomini, Casinia, SG Casino, Fez Bet, Buran Casino, Spin Better, Golden Bet, and Clash.gg. The Authority also explained that website blocking is one of a range of enforcement options available to protect residents against illegal gambling services.  

ACMA noted that since it made its first blocking request in November 2019, 926 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked. A further 220 illegal services have also pulled out of the Australian market since the Authority started enforcing new illegal offshore gambling rules in 2017.

The regulator reminded consumers that "even if a service looks legitimate, it is unlikely to have important customer protections." Customers can check if a wagering service is licensed to operate in Australia on the Authority's register.

“Australians who use illegal gambling services are not protected by Australian laws. This means our laws can’t help if something goes wrong, like if the service provider withholds winnings," ACMA explained. 

A blocking request can be made if a service is providing prohibited interactive gambling services to customers in Australia (such as online casinos, online slot machines, and services that allow in-play online sports betting), providing an unlicensed regulated interactive gambling service to customers in Australia (such as online betting services that don’t have a valid Australian license) and publishing ads for prohibited interactive gambling services or unlicensed regulated interactive gambling services in Australia.