ACMA imposes bans on access to 4 illicit offshore gambling websites

The ACMA has identified 723 websites that are in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and operating illegally.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued orders to internet service providers to block access to four additional offshore gambling websites. The websites in question are:

• Firefox Casino
• Shazam Casino
• Rich Prize
• Heaps O Wins

The ACMA’s list of blocked websites now includes a total of 723 entries, reflecting the regulator’s ongoing efforts since its initial blocking request in November 2019. To ensure compliance with Australian law, consumers are strongly urged to verify the licensing status of any wagering service by consulting the ACMA register.

The ACMA has imposed a fine of AU$50,172 (US$34,400) on BetDeluxe, an Australian online sportsbook, for violating regulations aimed at safeguarding individuals from spam. The company was found to have sent over 104,000 SMS messages without including an unsubscribe function, as well as more than 820,000 SMS messages that lacked the sender’s contact details, resulting in the enforcement action by the ACMA.

Between December 2021 and February 2022, the text messages sent by BetDeluxe were found to contain promotions for “cheeky punts” and VIP services related to sports and racing. The messages also advertised bonus bets and money-back offers, which led to the company’s breach of regulations enforced by the ACMA regarding spam and unsubscribe functions, as well as sender’s contact details.