The Australian media watchdog, ACMA, is taking a firm stance against unlawful wagering, targeting a major player in the illegal gambling scene. They’ve directed Australian internet service providers to restrict access to thepokies.net, a website favored by Australians but in violation of national regulations.
Statistics reveal that approximately thirty thousand Australians frequented the site monthly, betting what the ACMA estimates to be in the tens of millions of dollars. The issue? The platform provides casino-style games deemed unlawful under Australian legislation, specifically the 2001 Interactive Gambling Act.
ACMA Chair, Nerida O’Loughlin, declared that thepokies.net had garnered more complaints than any other illicit gambling platform they’d encountered, underscoring the serious detriment it presented to the Australian populace.
These grievances ranged from individuals experiencing substantial financial losses to the site declining to honor deposits and payouts. O’Loughlin stressed that restricting access to such websites delivers a clear message that the ACMA is dedicated to taking action against unlawful operators targeting Australian citizens.
Thepokies.net is not the sole focus of the ACMA’s efforts. They’ve also taken measures to block access to numerous other illicit gambling websites functioning internationally, including platforms like Azure Hand, Abo Casino, and Betroom.
This initiative forms part of a broader strategy by the ACMA to combat unlawful offshore gambling. Since enacting new regulations in 2017, the agency has effectively compelled over 160 illegal gambling operations to cease operations within the Australian market.
Authorities are taking a hard line against illicit online wagering platforms. They are closing down websites and collaborating with various organizations to apprehend those operating them. Additionally, they are endeavoring to raise public awareness regarding the risks associated with unlawful gambling.
Olorine cautioned, “Should these platforms opt to retain your funds, a frequent occurrence, there is regrettably little recourse available to you.”
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