The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has identified and labeled five online gambling platforms – Viperspin, Just Casino, Betandplay, Play Fina, and Comic Play Casino – as operating illegally in Australia, breaching the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. ACMA has urged Australian internet service providers to block access to these sites to protect consumers from potential risks associated with illegal gambling operations.
Illegal Gambling Sites Identified:
ACMA has identified and labeled five online gambling sites – Viperspin, Just Casino, Betandplay, Play Fina, and Comic Play Casino – as operating illegally within Australia, violating the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
Consumer Protection Concerns:
ACMA highlighted that Australians using illegal gambling services are not protected by Australian laws. In case of issues like withheld winnings, Australian laws cannot provide assistance or protection to users.
ACMA’s Actions and Enforcement Options:
ACMA has requested Australian internet service providers to block access to these illegal gambling sites. Website blocking is one of the enforcement options available to ACMA when a site operates without a license or offers prohibited services such as online slots or in-play sports betting.
Cumulative Blocks and Exits:
With this recent blocking action, the total number of blocked gambling and affiliate sites in Australia has reached 835. Additionally, 215 illegal gambling services have ceased operations within the country since ACMA began enforcing new illegal offshore gambling regulations in 2017.
Continued Crackdown on Illegal Gambling:
ACMA’s actions are part of a continued crackdown on illegal online gambling to maintain regulatory compliance and protect consumers from unlicensed and potentially harmful gambling platforms.
The ongoing enforcement and blocking of illegal gambling sites in Australia demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining a regulated gambling environment and ensuring consumer protection.