The Australian Communications and Multimedia Authority (ACMA) has said it will force national ISPs to block offshore sites gambling
“Blocking illegal sites by ISPs will be a valuable weapon for ACMA in combating illegal online gambling,” the ACMA said.
"If you have deposited money on an illegal gambling site, you should withdraw that money now."
According to the ACMA, offshore sites often do not offer large profits to users.
The ACMA has implemented a number of similar measures to combat illegal gambling. Over the past two years, more than 65 companies with gambling sites have left the Australian. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has added the managers of these sites to a risk list. In addition, the ACMA has contacted regulators in the countries of origin of these sites.
“ Public education is also vital in deterring Australian citizens from using these sites, as many illegal offshore gambling sites target Australian users using Australian themes and imagery, such as the Australian flag and others,” an ACMA spokesperson said.
The blocking of illegal sites will be carried out in accordance with the Telecommunications Act. The blocking decision must be signed by the chairman, deputy chairman or a senior officer of the ACMA.
The Australian government has been trying to combat the phenomenon of online gambling for many years. It has continuously implemented laws and measures to restrict gambling sites.
According to Communications Minister Paul Fletcher, approximately AU$400 million on illegal gambling sites each year.
“ACMA has the power to protect Australians from illegal gambling services by issuing formal warnings and imposing sanctions. However, taking direct action against faceless companies that do not have a legal presence in our parts is a difficult process,” said Fletcher
The minister also said that working with the country's ISPs to block illegal sites is important to protecting Australian citizens and providing a safer online gambling environment.
