The Australian Communications and Media Authority has shared the results of a report on the crackdown on illegal gambling services operating in 2023.
In the report, 200 offshore services were reviewed in the lead-up to, and during, the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. 21 were investigated as they appeared to be directly targeting Australians, and 18 were found to be operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
As a result, three withdrew from the Australian market, and 15 had their websites blocked by internet service providers at the request of the ACMA.
“Illegal gambling operations often take advantage of high-profile sporting events to push their services onto fans,” said ACMA authority member and online gambling lead Carolyn Lidgerwood.
“These sites also offer none of the consumer protections that apply to licensed wagering services in Australia. Using these sites is more than a gamble as you have no rights and even if you win, you may never see the money.”
