The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has directed internet service providers to block four additional illegal online gambling sites, including Slot Mafia, Top Aussie Pokies, Polymarket, and Spinanga. These platforms offer gambling services that violate the Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 and are considered high-risk unlicensed operators.
Since November 2019, ACMA has blocked over 1,296 illegal websites and their associated sites, and since the enforcement of new regulations in 2017, about 220 unlicensed services have voluntarily exited the Australian market.
Despite this, the regulatory authority warns that there are still many illegal platforms that appear legitimate but lack financial security and dispute resolution channels.
ACMA reminds consumers to verify the official license status of any gambling service before use and provides resources and complaint procedures to identify and report suspicious sites. The regulatory body emphasizes that using unlicensed platforms carries a high risk, and players may lose their deposits and find it difficult to recover them.
This blocking is part of Australia's ongoing efforts to combat offshore illegal gambling, aimed at protecting local players' safety while disrupting the activities of illegal operators in the domestic market.
