ACMA request for internet service providers to block additional illegal online gambling sites and the impact on football wagers

Fans in Australia also enjoy predicting results and so access casino sites to place wagers during the campaign. However, some platforms are more trustworthy than others.

With that in mind, it's important to note that the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has taken action against illegal gambling operators by requesting Australian internet service providers block additional websites. This article will look at the latest move and assess how players can ensure they are playing with legitimate betting platforms.

Importance of Finding a Platform you can Trust

When looking for a casino site before placing wagers on competitions like the A-League, Premier League and Champions League, it is always a smart move to compare and assess a range of different platforms. Reading expert reviews is imperative when searching for fully licensed and regulated sites. Checking out offers and promotions like 25 free spins on registration can also enhance your gaming experience and provide opportunities to make additional moves without the usual financial risks associated with wagering.

Taking the time to conduct thorough research can help you make choices from a place of genuine knowledge and authority. By reading up on different sites and looking for the most popular and trusted, you can game in a safe and fair environment while placing bets knowing you won't run into any nasty surprises down the line.

ACMA Taking Action

The ACMA follows a number of strategies in a bid to protect Australian players from unlicensed betting platforms. Website blocking is one of the measures enforced with the ACMA investigating sites which operate in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.

The first blocking request was made by ACMA in November 2019 and since then, a total of 1,178 illegal gambling and affiliate websites have been denied access in Australia. Not only that but the ACMA's presence and action has also seen more than 200 illegal gambling operators actively withdraw from the Australian market following the introduction of stricter regulations in 2017.

What's more, ACMA provides a public register of licensed betting services which allows players to verify whether a casino platform is authorised to operate in the country.

How Licensed Operators Protect Players

Operators which are fully licensed and regulated are keen and legally bound to ensure players are safe at all times when playing. There are a number of ways platforms have taken steps to improve their offerings.

Bolstered Security Measures

Online operators have taken steps to bolster security and ensure players are safe each and every time they log in to a platform online via a smartphone or tablet. Some of the measures implemented include advanced encryption technologies which protect a player's personal information and financial details, detect and identify suspicious activity and conduct regular audits on security. Operators have also used technology like Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure fair play when gamers are accessing slot pursuits and casino games. 

Two-factor authentication is also being employed to give players an extra layer of protection. The way in which it works is that gamers have to provide an additional piece of information before gaining access to a site. So, after an initial password has been entered, a unique code, for example, will then be sent to the person's email address or mobile phone number. Only when this detail has been entered will a player be able to login and game.

Strong Customer Support Services

Online operators have also introduced live chatbots to deal with customer queries and problems in real-time. In years gone by, players may have to wait days or weeks before receiving a response and even longer to find a solution to a problem. Now though, gamers feel fully supporters and trust platforms which are on hand to swiftly answer and help, cutting out wait times and hassle and allowing players to get back to bets.

Steps for Responsible Gambling

When gaming online, it's crucial that players always remain on high alert and take positive steps to search out licensed operators to game with. The ACMA reminders gamers that even if a site appears legitimate, unlicensed platforms simply don't offer key player protections and so gaming there means individuals are always susceptible to losing funds with little to zero safety or standing.

While the ACMA has been taken action against illegal platforms, it is still up to players to manage their own gambling habits to ensure they are safe at all times. On matchday, football fans wishing to place a bet must always set themselves a budget so that their wagering remains an enjoyable pastime and doesn't negatively impact their working life, social life or friends and family. Gamers should only bet what they can afford to lose. It's also wise to play with the head not the heart by backing favourite teams while avoiding chasing losses.

There are a number of networks offering support to those who feel they may have a problem with gambling while those who are aware and seeking help can also make use of self-exclusion tools in a bid to help the situation.

Overall, the ACMA action against illegal operators is a huge plus for Australian football bettors. Regulations are in place so that players can game with peace of mind and the knowledge that they are placing wagers in a safe and fair environment.