ACMA Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling Site Thepokies.net
The Australian Media and Communications Authority (ACMA) has made a significant move to combat unlawful wagering platforms operating within the country. They’ve directed Australian internet providers to restrict connections to thepokies.net, a platform believed to generate substantial revenue from betting activities. Statistics indicate that approximately 30,000 Australians frequented the site monthly.
The ACMA inquiry disclosed that the platform provided online casino-type games, deemed unlawful in Australia according to the 2001 Interactive Gambling Act.
“We’ve received a higher volume of complaints regarding thepokies.net compared to any other illicit gambling platform, and it’s evident that it has inflicted considerable harm upon the Australian populace,” stated ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin.
Australians reported various concerns with the platform, including substantial financial losses and challenges in retrieving deposits and winnings.
“Restricting access to platforms like this conveys a powerful message that the ACMA possesses the capability and willingness to take action to disrupt illicit operators targeting Australians,” Ms. O’Loughlin remarked.
The ACMA has also formally asked ISPs to block access to several other unlawful wagering platforms, including Azure Hand, Abo Casino, Betroom, 777Bay, Space Lilly, Jet Casino, Katsu Bet, and Winz.
Since enacting new regulations aimed at illegal offshore gambling in 2017, the ACMA asserts that 160 illicit services have withdrawn from the Australian market.
Authorities are truly taking a hard line on unlawful wagering. They are shutting down online platforms constantly, collaborating with various sectors to close them off, and even pursuing them head-on. Furthermore, they are heavily invested in educating the public about the risks associated with these sites. For instance, if you transfer funds to them and they opt to simply retain it, you’re out of options. There’s no recourse available.