Australian regulator orders ISPs to block seven illegal gambling websites

• The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has ordered ISPs to block seven illegal gambling sites
• These sites were found breaching the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 by offering unlicensed gambling services
• Since 2019, ACMA has blocked 1,338 illegal gambling and affiliate websites to protect Australian consumers

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has directed internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to seven online gambling websites operating illegally in Australia. The regulatory action follows investigations revealing that these sites were breaching the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 by offering gambling services without proper licensing for the Australian market.

The blocked websites include Casiny, CoinPoker, Crown Play, Fafabet9, SlotFred, Smart 93, and Vigor Spin. These operators were found to be providing prohibited gambling activities, making their services unlawful under Australian legislation.

Since November 2019, the ACMA has escalated efforts to curb illegal gambling. It has requested the blocking of 1,338 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. Around 220 unlicensed services have voluntarily exited the Australian market as a result of increased regulatory pressure.

ACMA continues to warn Australian consumers against using unlicensed gambling services, highlighting the lack of essential consumer protections and the heightened risk of financial loss.

Consumer safety measures include a publicly accessible register maintained by ACMA, listing authorised wagering services. This registry is designed to help Australians verify the legitimacy of gambling operators. ACMA also offers educational resources and reporting channels for suspected illegal operators.

The regulator’s enforcement actions come amid a broader regulatory focus aimed at ensuring compliance across the gambling sector.

Recently, ACMA sanctioned four licensed operators for breaches of self-exclusion rules under the National Self-Exclusion Register (BetStop). The authority also issued warnings to offshore operators based in jurisdictions such as Curaçao.

ACMA’s director of compliance and investigations, Mr Paul Knott, said:

“The ACMA is committed to keeping Australian consumers safe from illegal gambling. Blocking access to unlawful sites is part of a comprehensive approach to enforcement under Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act.”

For operators and investors, this regulatory vigilance highlights the importance of adherence to licensing requirements and responsible gambling practices in Australia’s tightly regulated market.

Regulators continue to focus on protecting players and maintaining the integrity of the gambling sector by targeting illicit online activities.​