The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the regulatory body in charge of media in the country, announced it had expanded its list of blocked illegal online gambling websites.
Investigation discovers illegal gambling operators
On Tuesday, the Authority confirmed that following an investigation, it discovered several websites were offering their services in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
As a result, ACMA asked internet service providers (ISPs) in Australia to block access to several illegal online gambling websites.
A statement released by the regulatory body confirmed that the blocks affected a total of four websites.
Australia's media regulatory body reminded consumers that some websites may appear to be legitimate while, in reality, they may be offering their services without the necessary license.
This, ACMA said, puts the customers at risk of losing their money.
ACMA continues to grow its block list
The scrutiny of the online gambling sector began in 2017 when the country rolled out new rules affecting iGaming.
After the introduction of the new rules, approximately 220 illegal operators have voluntarily exited the country's regulated gambling market.
However, many more continue to target Aussie players with lucrative offers and without possessing the necessary license.
This is why ACMA constantly monitors the market and takes action against illegal online gambling websites.
The latest blocking request further increased the number of illegal gambling and affiliate websites that have been blocked.
In November 2019, ACMA made the first such request for blocking illegal online gambling websites. To date, the list of blocked operators has grown to more than 1,200.
Back in March, the Authority made another request for blocking offshore gambling websites.
At the time, ACMA asked ISPs to block access to two websites.
Before that, in February, the media Authority hit another set of offshore gambling websites with ISP blocks.
