The Australian Media and Communications Authority (ACMA) has made a significant move in its battle against unlawful overseas wagering by directing internet providers to restrict entry to ThePokies.net. This measure comes after a surge of grievances from Australians who claimed to have lost substantial amounts of money on the platform, which provided casino-type games that are forbidden under Australian regulations.
The ACMA calculates that ThePokies.net, which drew in an estimated 30,000 Australian users monthly, produced tens of millions of dollars in bets. “The sheer quantity of complaints we received regarding ThePokies.net, exceeding any other illicit gambling website, demonstrates the considerable damage it was inflicting on our society,” stated ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin.
This step delivers a powerful message that the ACMA is dedicated to disrupting illegal offshore gaming operations focused on Australians. Since 2017, when fresh regulations targeting these unlawful providers were implemented, the ACMA has effectively forced over 160 of them out of the Australian market.
Besides ThePokies.net, the ACMA also took steps to block numerous other unlawful wagering sites, such as Azure Hand, Abo Casino, Betroom, 777Bay, Space Lilly, Jet Casino, Katsu Bet, and Winz.
Authorities are taking a hard line against illicit wagering platforms. They are closing sites, collaborating with lawful enterprises to halt financial transactions, and pursuing major offenders. Additionally, they aim to raise public awareness regarding the dangers involved. However, as Olorin noted, if one engages in gambling on an unlawful platform and they choose to withhold winnings, recourse is likely limited. Options for action are scarce in such situations.