ACMA's Resolute Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling During Women's World Cup
The ACMA took decisive action against 18 unlicensed offshore gambling sites during the 2023 Women's World Cup, blocking 15 and forcing 3 to withdraw from the Australian market.
ACMA's Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling During 2023 Women's World Cup
As the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup captivated audiences across Australia and New Zealand last summer, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) was vigilantly monitoring the online gambling landscape. Their mission? To protect fans from the insidious reach of illegal offshore operators seeking to capitalize on the tournament's popularity.
In the lead-up and during the Women's World Cup itself, the ACMA's watchful eye scrutinized a staggering 200 offshore gambling services. Of these, 21 underwent comprehensive investigations to determine their compliance with Australia's stringent interactive gambling laws.
The findings were revealing – while 3 services were found to operate within legal bounds, a concerning 18 were confirmed to be in blatant violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. Swiftly, the ACMA took decisive action.
Three of the offending services wisely chose to withdraw from the Australian market, restricting access to local users. However, the remaining 15 illicit operations faced a more severe consequence – their websites were promptly blocked by internet service providers at the ACMA's directive, following formal warnings.
Carolyn Lidgerwood, ACMA authority member and online gambling lead, minced no words in condemning these rogue operators: "These sites were not licensed to provide wagering services in Australia, and some even offered forms of gambling that are banned outright, such as online casinos, slots, and in-play betting."
Lidgerwood's stern message served as a cautionary tale to Australian punters seduced by the lure of illegal gambling: "Illegal gambling operations often prey on high-profile sporting events to push their services onto unsuspecting fans. These sites offer none of the consumer protections mandated for licensed wagering services in Australia. Using these sites is more than a gamble – you have no rights, and even if you win, you may never see your winnings."
The ACMA's crackdown on illegal online gambling during the Women's World Cup underscores their unwavering commitment to upholding Australia's gambling laws and safeguarding the interests of the nation's sports fans.
Recently, the authority has also blocked access to several other unlicensed betting sites, including Lucky7even, Zota Bet, Casino Infinity, and 50 Crowns, further solidifying its stance against illicit gambling operations.
What's Your Reaction?
