ACMA Blocks More Illegal Offshore Gambling Websites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken decisive action against illegal offshore gambling websites, requesting internet service providers to block platforms such as Lucky Block and Rooli. As part of its ongoing effort to safeguard Australian consumers, the ACMA has now blocked 1,059 illegal websites since 2019, warning of the significant financial risks associated with using these unregulated services.

ACMA Blocks Illegal Offshore Gambling Sites, Including Lucky Block and Rooli

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal offshore gambling websites, requesting that internet service providers (ISPs) block access to Lucky Block and Rooli. These sites were found to be in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, prompting their removal from the Australian market.

This latest action is part of the ACMA’s wider strategy to protect Australian consumers from the dangers posed by unregulated gambling services. Since the ACMA initiated its first website blocking request in November 2019, over 1,059 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked.

Key Points:

1. ACMA Blocks More Offshore Gambling Websites: Following investigations, Lucky Block and Rooli have been blocked for violating Australian gambling laws.
2. Ongoing Protection Efforts: Since 2017, more than 220 illegal gambling services have voluntarily exited the Australian market due to ACMA’s stricter regulations.
3. Consumer Protection Warnings: The ACMA warns Australians that using illegal gambling platforms carries significant risks, including financial loss and lack of customer protections.

Risks of Using Illegal Services

The ACMA continues to remind Australians that engaging with unlicensed gambling websites poses considerable risks. These offshore operators often lack critical consumer protections, meaning that users could lose their money without any means of recourse. The authority encourages consumers to verify the licensing status of any gambling service through its official register before participating.

In a statement, the ACMA emphasized: “Using illegal gambling platforms not only puts your finances at risk but also leaves you exposed to unregulated operators who don’t adhere to Australian standards of consumer protection.”

Since the Interactive Gambling Act was updated in 2017, the ACMA has tightened its enforcement of offshore gambling regulations. Alongside website blocking, the authority has seen over 220 illegal services voluntarily withdraw from the Australian market.

ACMA’s Broader Enforcement Efforts

In addition to blocking illegal gambling websites, the ACMA continues to enforce advertising regulations. Earlier this year, it found that sports streaming service Kayo had violated gambling advertising rules by showing multiple gambling ads during live sports events outside the permitted timeframes.

Following complaints from viewers, the ACMA conducted investigations that revealed 16 different gambling advertisements had aired during 267 live sports events—well outside the allowed times. These findings underline the ACMA’s broader commitment to ensuring gambling regulations are adhered to, both in terms of advertising and operations.

Protecting Australian Consumers

The ACMA’s efforts are part of its ongoing mission to protect Australian consumers from the financial and security risks associated with unregulated gambling. The authority has made resources available on its website to help users understand the risks and report illegal gambling operations. Consumers can also file complaints and access information on how to protect themselves from these illicit sites.

The ACMA encourages anyone engaging with online gambling to check the official register of licensed operators in Australia and steer clear of unlicensed platforms that operate outside the law.

The ACMA continues its proactive stance in combatting illegal offshore gambling by blocking unregulated websites like Lucky Block and Rooli. With 1,059 illegal sites blocked and 220 services exiting the market since 2017, the authority remains committed to protecting Australian consumers from the risks posed by unlicensed gambling operators. The ACMA’s broader enforcement of gambling regulations, including advertising violations, underscores its role in maintaining a safe and regulated gambling environment in Australia.