The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a directive to block Wild Blaster and BetUS due to their unauthorized provision of gambling services within Australia.
The ACMA asserts that Wild Blaster and BetUS are in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001. While the ACMA has not detailed the specific infractions, it has confirmed that these platforms are operating unlawfully.
Consequently, the ACMA has directed Australian internet service providers to restrict access to these websites.
The ACMA is empowered to take such action when operators offer prohibited interactive gambling services to Australian consumers. Blocking orders can also be implemented for websites that conduct online gambling in Australia without a valid Australian license.
Moreover, the ACMA possesses the authority to intervene if websites disseminate advertisements for prohibited gambling services or unlicensed gambling operations.
Since November 2019, when the ACMA first initiated blocking requests, 863 illicit gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked. Since 2017, when the ACMA began enforcing new regulations against illegal offshore gambling, an additional 218 unlawful services have ceased operations in Australia.
The ACMA declared: “Australians utilizing illegal gambling services are not shielded by Australian legislation. This implies that if an issue arises, such as a service provider withholding winnings, our laws cannot offer assistance.”
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is taking a tough stance against unlawful gambling websites.
They have recently blocked Wild Blaster and BetUS, mirroring their actions against other sites in the past.
Earlier this month, Best Bookies ceased providing odds comparisons after receiving a warning from the ACMA. They were in violation of gambling regulations.
Last month, the ACMA requested the blocking of five additional websites: Viperspin, Just Casino, Betandplay, Play Fina, and Comic Play Casino. These platforms were all operating without authorization.
The ACMA aims to prevent Australian internet providers from granting access to these sites.
Subscribe to the iGaming news newsletter.