Australian media regulator moves to block five illegal gambling websites
ACMA requests internet service providers ban quintet of unlicensed operators as it reminds public to remain vigilant
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has instructed the country’s internet service providers to block an additional five illegal offshore gambling websites.
The regulator has moved to ban Grand Rush, Jackpot Jill, Koala Royal, National Casino and Juicy Stakes after several complaints were filed against the operators.
ACMA proceeded to undertake investigations into the five websites and discovered they were operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
The five newly blocked sites means that 295 illegal gambling websites have now been blocked since ACMA made its first blocking request to internet services providers in November 2019.
Additionally, more than 140 illegal services have been pulled out of the Australian market since ACMA enforced new illegal offshore gambling regulation in 2017.
ACMA warned Australian customers to remain vigilant when using online gambling services as illegal offerings can regularly appear legitimate.
ACMA said: “ACMA is reminding consumers that even if a service looks legitimate, it’s unlikely to have important customer protections. This means Australians who use illegal gambling services risk losing their money.
“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.”