Australian watchdog orders blocking of more illegal gambling sites in ongoing crackdown

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has ordered internet service providers to block more illegal gambling websites found to be operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

The latest sites now blocked are Best Aussie Pokies, winspirit.online, win-spirit.online, winspirit.team, and winspirit1.com.

The regulator uses website blocking as part of a broader strategy to protect Australians from illegal online gambling. Since ACMA issued its first blocking request in November 2019, a total of 1,279 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been blocked.

Additionally, around 220 illegal gambling services have voluntarily exited the Australian market since ACMA began its intensified enforcement efforts in 2017.

ACMA has warned consumers that even if an online gambling service appears legitimate, it may lack essential consumer protections. This could leave users vulnerable to losing money with little recourse.

Australians are encouraged to verify whether a wagering service is licensed to operate in Australia by consulting ACMA’s public register. For more information on safe online gambling practices, how to avoid illegal operators, or to lodge a complaint, visit the ACMA website.