Learn how regulators are tackling illegal online gambling in the Netherlands, Australia, and the UK, and what the consequences could be in the future.
The online casino industry is one of the world's largest, fastest-growing, and most innovative. But that doesn't mean there aren't any faults. Illegal gambling is an issue that is faced in many regions, including the Netherlands, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
While rising in these areas, the regulators that control them tackle the problems head-on. Join us as we learn more about what's happening across the globe.
Dutch Gaming Authority partners with Cloudflare
First on the roster is the Dutch online gambling environment. The Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA) has partnered with Cloudflare (a top internet service provider) to combat illegal gambling and to create safer gaming spaces. The initial directives provided to Cloudflare appeared incorrect, leading to many discussions and new agreements.
Now that Cloudflare's role has been established and is better understood, the regulator can work with them to end illegal sites.
The KSA can now obtain information on illegal software providers and the hosting parties they're using. This aims to disrupt and halt illegal gambling activities, which go against Dutch regulations .
Despite the challenges in detecting these illegal providers, the KSA hopes the partnership with Cloudflare will make a difference in the long run.
ACMA blocks 15 illegal sites in Australia
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) recently investigated unlicensed offshore gambling websites during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Out of 200 operators under the microscope, 21 were suspected of targeting Australian bettors in a way that went against online gambling regulations in Australia . A total of 18 were found guilty of offering services to the island citizens without a license , violating the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
The ACMA warned these operators, and three voluntarily blocked access to Australian users . However, the remaining 15 operators failed to comply, which immediately prompted the ACMA to have them blocked by Australian ISPs.
Battling illegal gambling in the UK
The UK government is considering giving the UK Gambling Commission more power to block local players from accessing unlicensed UK gambling websites as offshore casinos are on the rise.
Similarly, Ireland's Gambling Regulation Bill 2022 aims to authorise the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland to request that illegitimate gambling services be quickly blocked.
Despite very strict UK online gambling regulations , players have found a way to access crypto casinos by buying pre-verified accounts on social media platforms. These accounts, which can be bought for as little as £8, allow users to bypass the verification process and gain access to illegal and unregulated crypto casinos. Social platforms have responded by removing these accounts, but those who wish to gamble illegally will always find a way to do so.
Gambling remains illegal in other parts of the world, such as the UAE, Turkey, and Cambodia . It's important to learn more about the gambling laws in your country before you play, and always choose a casino that is safe, licensed, and follows the laws applied to your region. Do your homework and play safe , or you may face unnecessary consequences.