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Celebrity Gambler – Poker After Dark Extraordinaire Guy Laliberté

By Shadrack Kairu

Guy Laliberté is a unique role model to most Canadians. Having started off as an accordion-playing street performer, he rose to stardom as a renowned entertainment mogul and was even the first Canadian to venture into outer space. Now that’s a life well lived. His inspiring tale is what great movies are made of, as it’s not something you see every day in real life.

Laliberté was born on September 2, 1959, in Quebec City, Canada. At just 18 years old, he boldly left his homeland behind to embark on a journey of self-discovery hitchhiking across Europe. There he immersed himself in street culture to survive honing unconventional skills like fire-eating and stilt-walking. Little did the young vagabond know these would lay the vital groundwork.

Today, the name Laliberté is inextricably intertwined with Cirque du Soleil worldwide. The internationally renowned circus production began quite modestly as a street troupe formed by Guy and friends in 1984. However, it has skyrocketed into a global entertainment powerhouse under his entrepreneurial vision. Over 100 million awestruck spectators spanning the globe have witnessed its incomparable magic and artistry on stage.

Cirque du Soleil’s staggering commercial and critical success catapulted Laliberté to stratospheric wealth. Forbes now pegs his current net worth around an eye-watering $1.1 billion. His fierce business savvy and innovative thinking are widely acclaimed and studied. But the multi-talented mogul’s enduring passion for high-stakes poker also brought him great notoriety and success.

On the green felt, Laliberté has racked up an impressive $2.53 million in live tournament earnings over his career to date. His biggest single tournament score was the $1.835 million he banked for a strong 5th place finish at the prestigious 2012 WSOP $1 million Big One for One Drop event. One of the most expensive buy-in tournaments ever held, often attracting the attention of poker enthusiasts and even the top Canadian online casinos.

However, he’s perhaps most notorious in poker circles for being the biggest all-time loser in the online cash game realm. Having haemorrhaged over an astounding $31 million across various platforms and accounts over the years in brutal downswing runs. Showcasing his fearless white whale gambling mentality in pursuit of the biggest adrenaline rushes at the virtual tables.

Guy Laliberté Statistics

Poker After Dark with Guy Laliberté

Laliberté’s enduring poker enthusiasm outright transcends simply playing at the tables himself over the years. He’s made countless memorable televised appearances showcasing his skills and fearless gambling spirit to audiences worldwide too.

A particularly notable televised showcase was during the 4th season of the popular high-stakes cash game show “Poker After Dark” which aired in 2008 on the NBC network. This big buy-in event put Laliberté across the felts from some of the elite pros of that era. Including squaring off against the then inimitable “durrrr” mystery online crusher Tom Dwan, as well as the indefatigable “Poker Brat” Phil Hellmuth.

He was also a featured regular on the classic “High Stakes Poker” show that aired on GSN during the poker boom years. Where the deep-pocketed daredevil Laliberté found himself embroiled in not just one but two of the biggest singular pots in that series’ entire history.

One was a devastatingly memorable $818,100 pot he would ultimately lose to the legendary living legend Doyle Brunson. With Laliberté’s aces cracked in brutal fashion by Doyle’s superior holding on an unlucky board runout.

In another iconic hand versus David Benyamine, the two men incredibly agreed to run an ultra-massive $238,900 pot after initially putting their staggering $1.228 million stacks in pre-flop! Displaying the kind of unrepentant high-stakes gamble those shows were built around.

Although Laliberté never achieved a major televised tournament win on these seminal poker shows, his frequent appearances proved compelling viewing regardless. He solidified his reputation as one of the elite echelon of players willing to gamble big money with utter fearlessness. Turning himself into a bonafide poker celebrity along the way outside his day job running an entertainment empire.

Guy’s Awards and Space Adventure

However, Guy Laliberté’s enduring acclaim indisputably extends far beyond just the realms of commerce and poker cards too. His supremely visionary entrepreneurship driving Cirque du Soleil’s monumental growth earned the Canadian legend major prestigious accolades and honours over the years for his trailblazing.

This included being named the Ernst & Young Canadian Entrepreneur of the Year in 2006. His innovative vision, creativity and execution transformed the traditional circus into a revolutionary form of avant-garde “nouveau cirque” entertainment unquestionably played a pivotal key part in earning this award.

The very next year in 2007, Laliberté received the global Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year honor as well. An achievement that celebrated his ability to transcend national borders and redefine the entire entertainment industry worldwide. Turning his modest travelling street troupe concept into a multi-billion dollar family entertainment juggernaut on the biggest stages.

Back home, in 1997 he had already been bestowed Quebec province’s highest honour, the National Order. For his invaluable cultural contributions elevating his homeland’s prestigious arts profile exponentially on the international stage.

Then in 2004, Laliberté’s immense overall impact and influence was nationally recognized when he received the even more prestigious Order of Canada from the federal government too. In addition, this billionaire was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World that same year, cementing his status as a truly transformative culture leader.

However, Laliberté’s most audacious personal achievement arrived in September 2009 – when he accomplished the unprecedented feat of becoming the first-ever Canadian civilian to venture into outer space as a pioneering tourist aboard the Russian Soyuz TMA-16 rocket mission. An endeavour he undertook with the specific intent of raising global awareness for the critical issue of water resource access and conservation.

After returning safely to Earth, in 2011 Laliberté published a stunning photobook titled “Gaia” collecting his breathtaking visual perspectives of the planet captured from the stellar vantage point of space during his historic voyage. With all proceeds from the book’s sales being donated directly to benefit his One Drop charitable foundation’s clean water initiatives worldwide.

Guy Laliberté and Philanthropy

While famed for his unparalleled business acumen and high-stakes poker prowess, Guy Laliberté’s lasting true legacy to humanity may very well be his tremendously impactful philanthropic vision and leadership over recent decades.

In 2007, the Canadian entrepreneur founded the One Drop nonprofit Foundation, dedicated to ensuring sustainable access to safe water resources and basic sanitation and hygiene education for some of the most impoverished communities all across the globe.

His most significant and widely celebrated charitable initiative partnered with the World Series of Poker in 2011 – when he spearheaded the creation of the $1 million Big One for One Drop event. This instantly became the largest single buy-in prize pool tournament in the history of poker up to that point, squarely intended to raise money and awareness for underprivileged populations in need.

The inaugural edition staged in 2012 proved an unqualified blockbuster success on that front too. Attracting an elite field of 48 ultra-wealthy businessmen entries from around the world, and raising a staggering $5,333,328 in funds for One Drop’s sustainable water access programs globally.

The record-shattering $18,346,673 first prize was awarded to Antonio Esfandiari for his victory. Laliberté himself walked the walk too, leading by principled example and finishing 5th in the charitable event for $1,835,666 – which he donated back to the One Drop cause himself.

One Drop’s resonant success and popularity inspired the World Series of Poker to continue hosting additional $1 million buy-in “Big One For One Drop” charity events annually in the years since too. Allowing poker’s wealthiest elite professionals and amateurs to give back significantly to causes providing humanitarian relief worldwide, directly following Laliberté’s selfless philanthropic lead.

In fact, his influence in raising the sigma of high-stakes gambling beyond pure personal enrichment towards purposeful charitable giving may be an even more powerful legacy overall. Shepherding an increasingly giving-back mentality throughout the poker world and its highest echelons where he participated.

Closing Thoughts: Beyond the Billionaire

From penniless teenage vagabond street busker plying his talents for spare change to the billionaire visionary entertainment mogul and high-stakes gambler he’d eventually become – Guy Laliberté’s winding inspirational life journey exemplifies what can be achieved through perseverance, resilience, altruism and an unwavering commitment to pursuing one’s passions against all odds.

Cirque du Soleil’s spectacular rise from his bold circus troupe concept into one of the most successful and unprecedented global entertainment empires is remarkable enough of an achievement in its own right. Laliberté’s true eternal legacy to humankind may very well be measured more by the lasting positive humanitarian global impact of his pioneering philanthropic vision and leadership.

His establishment of the One Drop Foundation and its sustainable initiatives providing clean water access, sanitation and education to impoverished populations in need worldwide has already directly improved and saved countless lives. An accomplishment that transcends commercial entertainment and personal wealth to impact the core foundations of communities fighting to simply survive.

Similarly, in the high-stakes gambling realm of poker itself where Laliberté avidly participated and pushed personal boundaries, he’ll be remembered as a certifiable iconic player. Unfazed by even the most brutal crippling downswing losses totalling tens of millions in the perpetual pursuit of the game’s biggest adrenaline rushes at the nosebleed stakes.

Yet it was also his example of freely choosing to leverage that same high-stakes platform to help inspire more charitable giving back from the poker world that elevated his impact far beyond the tables as well. Laliberté embodied the true maverick spirit of an adventurer, thrill-seeker and gambling daredevil who embraced all the inherent risks with open arms – while somehow still maintaining a higher purpose and altruistic intentions beyond selfish self-interest alone, much like the best Canadian online casinos that prioritize responsible gaming and community contributions.

Ultimately, the enduring life lessons and inspiration from Laliberté’s gripping personal odyssey prove that against all conceivable odds or hardships, anyone can turn their wildest dreams into tangible reality – so long as they possess the courage to unhesitatingly seize unforeseen opportunities that present themselves. Weather the inevitable storms of adversity with unwavering resilience and resolve. While still retaining the core humanist values of wanting to help build a better world for others throughout that arduous journey, beyond simply benefiting themselves.

The difference between Quick Games and Betgames at Jackpot City South Africa

by Vinolin Naidoo

Since Jackpot City Casino hit South African shores, it has been all the rage when it comes to South African online casinos. If you have not yet heard about it, you need to get on this bandwagon fast. Today, we are going to give you all the tea on this established and globally trusted minimum deposit casino.  

It has been around for many years, having come onto the gambling scene at the end of the millennia in 1998. Today, it is regarded as among the most reputable online casinos with over 3 million players in its care. And their players are from all over the world – from Canada to New Zealand and beyond. Jackpot City has cemented itself as a frontrunner when it comes to quality gaming and responsible gambling, so if you are looking for your next safe gaming wonderland, this may just be for you. 

Jackpot City South Africa launched earlier this year, and we do not doubt that the platform will climb the ranks rather quickly and be considered one of the best South African online casino offers. It is operated by Eastern Dawn Sports Ltd and is licensed by the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator.  

Whether its welcome bonus offers, lucrative promotions, safe and secure banking methods or impressive customer service levels, Jackpot City South Africa has it all for its players. It is home to hundreds of dynamic games which will keep players entertained for hours. Popular gaming genres at the casino include Slots, Table Games, Live Casino Games, Betgames and Quick Games.  

This article explores two exciting gaming categories at Jackpot City South Africa: Betgames and Quick Games.  

Betgames and Quick Games are two fantastic gaming genres at Jackpot City, and both have several unique gaming variants that provide players with fast gameplay and the possibility to win big in just a few seconds.  

What is Betgames?

Betgames is an exciting online casino product that combines dice, ball and card games with live dealer elements. Some online casinos in South Africa do provide players with Betgames, but Jackpot City has better quality products available for players. These Betgames are about innovation, excitement and speed. The games are easy to play, fast and live-streamed every few minutes. The best part is that it allows players to place bets on various betting markets within a game; these include betting on the total sum of a game, the colour of a ball, and even whether a dice will land on a specific number.

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The Betgames available at Jackpot City

South African players can visit the Jackpot City homepage and click the Betgames banner to access the various Betgames gaming variants at the casino. It combines dice, ball and card games with live dealer elements. Below, we briefly summarise the Betgames available at Jackpot City South Africa. 

Ball/Lottery Games: 

• Lucky 5, Lucky 6 & Lucky 7 – These are three different ball/lottery style games, with a wide range of betting markets, with up to 2000x returns on your bets. A lottery wheel spits out numbered balls, which determine players’ bets. 

Table/Card Games: 

• Bet on Poker, 6+ Poker – These two games are based on the popular card game Poker. Players can wager on which hand will win, and unlike traditional poker games where you can call or fold, here you are only betting on the outcomes of a hand.
• War of Bets – Similar to Baccarat, this game allows players to pick a side (player, dealer or tie) outcome of a drawn card. 
• Speedy 7 – A 7 card game in which players can choose which colour card (red or black) will be drawn next from the deck. 

Wheel Games: 

• Wheel of Fortune & Classic Wheel – The spinning wheel mechanism is divided into three colours, and players can predict where the wheel clapper will land.  

Dice Games: 

• Dice Duel – A live game dice variant with live draws every three minutes. Players can place bets on various combinations, including the total sum of both dice, odds/evens and which dice will have the higher number.  

What is Quick Games

Quick Games are all about instant gaming action, with fast winning possibilities. Quick Games are cash-out style games which are data-friendly and feature simplistic gameplay and eye-catching themes and graphics.  

A common mistake many online casino players make is confusing Quick Games with Crash Games. Quick Games does not feature a crash mechanic multiplier, which you normally find in games like Skyward and Aviator. Fixed odds determine Quick Games, and players have complete control and can determine when the game is over by cashing out at any stage. Remember, though, all Quick Games are riddled with traps, so one wrong move and you lose. 

The Quick Games available at Jackpot City

South African players can visit the Jackpot City homepage and click the Quick Games banner to access the casino’s various Quick Games variants. Below, we briefly summarise the Quick Games available at Jackpot City South Africa. 

• Jungle Gems – A jungle-themed game where players climb to the treasure with huge payout possibilities.
• Gold Rush – Select nuggets of gold without hitting any bombs. The more gold you reveal, the bigger your payout. Gold Rush has four levels, so try and choose wisely to win more.
• Archeo – An Aztec-themed game which requires players to uncover the Aztec treasure one field at a time by trying to avoid the skulls. There are three bonus fields, with payouts up to 44x your bet.
• Monkey Bizniz – The higher your monkey climbs to retrieve the banana, the greater your multiplier and winnings.
• Plinko – A ball game which drops into multipliers, gets lucky and navigates your way to the bigger multipliers.
• Street Dice – Predict the number on the dice to win real money. There are three different modes to play Street Dice.
• Rock Paper Scissors – Relive your childhood memories with this classic old-school game. The same rules are used as always; just predict which hand will win.
• Magic Numbers – Match the winning numbers while trying to find the joker, guaranteeing a win.
• Soccer Mania – It’s all about being accurate here, scoring and shooting for the bucket with the largest multiplier to win huge returns.

Jackpot City South Africa is a fantastic new online casino, and we highly recommend it to new players. If you want more information about the operator, you can check out our comprehensive Jackpot City Casino Review.

Celebrity Gambler: Michael Phelps – A King of Gold Medals and Royal Flushes

By Shadrack Kairu

Michael Phelps is an American former professional swimmer. He is widely recognized as the greatest Olympian of all time having dominated Olympic swimming for nearly two decades.

Throughout his storied career, Phelps won a total of 28 medals, of which 23 were gold, setting the record for the most Olympic gold medals won by any athlete in history. He was also the first male U.S. swimmer to qualify for five Olympic teams, and his final splash came at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he secured six medals.

And while Michael Phelps is best known for his incredible achievements in the pool, there’s one side to his life that often flies under the radar – his love for poker games. Phelps is without a doubt a prolific poker aficionado. In fact, his name hardly misses the list of celebrities who love online casinos and high-stakes poker games.

Phelps, who will celebrate his 39th birthday on June 30th this year, first started playing poker at online poker rooms when he was in high school. He started with $1/$2 level tables and gradually progressed to games with higher stakes. Today, he’s regularly spotted participating in weekly high-stakes poker games with his fellow athletes and celebrities.

Interestingly, Phelps loves playing poker so much that his close friends feel that he might be growing addicted to the game. In fact, his friends fear he could squander millions away.

But the Olympic swimming sensation doesn’t feel that way. If anything, he sees poker as a form of relaxation and nothing more serious:

“I love to play, it’s fun, it’s exciting,” Phelps said in a recent interview, adding that it was a place where he could be the best fashion of himself and that he’d met some of his best friends at a poker table.

Now that Phelps has hung up his boots, he’s decided to go all in on the felt. He has been seen on several occasions clanking chips alongside other high-stakes gamblers in London and Las Vegas.

In all, he channels any and all winnings to his charitable organization, the Michael Phelps Foundation, whose mission is to promote water safety, healthy living, and the pursuit of dreams.

What’s more, when he plays or appears at a big tournament, he attracts audiences from all walks of professions along with the usual fans of sweeps casinos.

Michael Phelps Statistics

Michael Phelps As the Face of Global Poker

Since retiring from competitive swimming, Phelps has participated in several poker tournaments, with the major one being the Word Series of Poker (WSOP). The WSOP is the most prestigious and iconic poker series in the world. The tournament is held in the Rio Hotel and Casino in Vegas.

He made his WSOP debut at the 2013 PokerStars Caribbean Adventure, where he participated in the $5,000 no-limit hold ’em event and cashed in a live poker tournament for $5,213. He also made an appearance at the 2017 WSOP where he was entered in the $10,000 no-limit hold’em.

The following year, the 23-time gold medalist made his appearance at the 2018 WSOP in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he took the $3,000 Six Max Place.

Recently, Phelps participated in the Global Poker Celebrity Challenge which saw him battle it out against a host of his celebrity peers, including DJ Khaled, Paul George, and Karl-Anthony Towns. Running from Oct. 16-24, the Michael Phelps Celebrity Challenge consisted of several Celebrity Challenge rounds before the Grand Final for the ultimate prize.

Each qualifying round had a separate prize pool, and in addition, participants had the opportunity to win Global Poker swag signed by Michael Phelps. One player from each qualifier progressed to the final, which took place on Oct. 24.

There were a total of eight Michael Phelps Sweeps Coins (SC) Qualifiers. These eight finalists competed against each other and the final winner earned a place in the Grand Michael Phelps Celebrity Challenge Final, where they faced up against the legendary athlete.

Who is Global Poker

Global Poker is a leading US real money online casino founded in 2016. It is owned by an Australian-based company called VGW Holdings Limited and is available to players in the United States and Canada.

The platform functions as a sweepstakes gaming site and allows users to play poker online legally, either for fun with Gold Coins or for an opportunity to redeem cash prizes with Sweeps Coins.

Since launching, Global Poker has cemented itself as one of North America’s top websites for social poker, offering a great variety of casino games, a greater range and size of prize pools, and the greatest tournaments and championships.

The Effect of the Michael Phelps and Global Poker Partnership

Michael Phelps is an inspiration to countless athletes and fans around the world. He’s someone who understands the power of hard work and is a symbol of success, which explains why so many people look up to and strive to be more like him.

Phelps’ partnership with Global Poker is definitely a win for the latter. Associating with a globally recognized athlete has brought visibility to the platform and enhanced its profile in the gaming industry. As a result, the brand has attracted a broader audience and increased its market cap in the fast-growing US casino market.

On the other hand, thanks to this partnership, the Michael Phelps Foundation has received generous donations from Global Poker and other donors, enabling it to accomplish its mission.

The US Online Casino Market Continues to Thrive

The US online casino market is growing at a steady rate, fueled by the evolving regulations and increasing acceptance of online gambling. As of 2023, more than half of the states have legalized or regulated some form of gambling. To this effect, the nation’s gross gaming revenue is projected to reach a staggering 33.13 billion by 2028, according to Statista.

The rise in gambling in the US can be attributed to several factors. First is the relaxation of gambling laws. The industry was previously heavily regulated, with many states banning gambling activities altogether. However, many states have since lifted bans on online gambling, thereby giving people the freedom to enjoy gambling.

Over and above all else, casino sites and mobile apps are now widely accessible. Long gone are the days when people needed to visit brick-and-mortar casinos in order to place their wagers. Today, Americans can place wagers right from the comfort of their homes no matter what device they use.

Finally, with advancements in technology, online casinos now offer a large range of games, from traditional table games to interactive slot machines. Adding to the allure is the availability of convenient and secure payment options. It doesn’t matter whether you prefer credit cards, e-wallets, or cryptocurrencies. Most online casinos support them all.

Be that as it may, gambling in the US is only legal at the federal level. What this means is that each state deals with gambling differently and has absolute control over what’s legal and what’s not. It remains to be seen how the landscape will evolve going into the future.

NBA calls for stronger gambling regulatory system in US after Porter banning

By Shadrack Kairu

The scandal surrounding former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter’s lifetime ban from the NBA for gambling violations has brought to light the pressing need for a stronger federal regulatory framework governing sports betting, not only in the United States online casinos and Canada but also Globally. This was a responsible gambling approach. 

In the aftermath of this explosive saga that rocked the league, the NBA’s top leadership is advocating forcefully for an overarching national approach to police the rapidly expanding legal sports gambling at minimum bet sportsbooks and other sports operators. 

During a recent news conference, NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum made the league’s stance crystal clear – they desperately want the federal government to take the reins and implement sturdy regulations for legalized sports betting from coast to coast. This comes just a few weeks after charges were filed against a New York man involved in the betting scandal that led to Porter’s downfall. 

“We’ve always been, again, an advocate for a federal regulatory framework here,” Tatum stated emphatically. “I think it creates transparency that we didn’t have previously, which allows us to maintain the integrity of the sport, which is essential to all sports leagues.” 

Preserving the integrity and fairness of NBA competition is paramount for the league. The ability to swiftly identify suspicious betting patterns, potential wrongdoing or match-fixing is crucial in this new landscape where legal sports wagering is proliferating rapidly nationwide. 

Tatum pointed out that the league was only made aware of the irregularities surrounding Porter’s actions thanks to the data and cooperation from their partners in the legalized sports betting industry. Had it not been for those monitoring resources, Porter’s gambling violations may have flown under the radar. 

“When the Supreme Court overturned PASPA in the U.S., that really left sort of two options: continue the illegal sports betting or it was to embrace a legalized sports betting system so that, quite frankly, we could identify the sort of behaviour that this uncovered,” Tatum explained, referring to the 2018 ruling that paved the way for states to legalize sports gambling. 

Why is a regulatory gambling framework important in the US?

The pressing need for a unified federal regulatory framework to govern sports betting in the United States cannot be overstated. While sports wagering is now permitted in some form across 37 states plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, the current situation is a tangled patchwork of differing rules and oversight bodies in each jurisdiction. 

This lack of a cohesive national approach creates significant challenges for leagues like the NBA in effectively safeguarding the integrity of their games and promptly detecting potential corruption or gambling-related improprieties by players, coaches, or others involved. Having disparate state-by-state systems makes it exponentially more difficult to monitor for sketchy activity that could unduly influence outcomes. 

A robust federal regulatory system would streamline efforts by establishing uniform standards, protocols, and enforcement mechanisms that all sportsbooks, data providers, and other stakeholders must follow from Oregon to Florida. This could include guidelines on the types of bets permitted, data sharing requirements, responsible gambling measures, age verification rules, and more. 

Essentially, it would create a level playing field with complete transparency – something the NBA believes is sorely lacking today. The varying state laws make it easier for bad actors to potentially exploit loopholes or jurisdictional gaps to fly under the radar while engaging in nefarious gambling activities that threaten game integrity. 

A federal system would also likely have more resources and investigative muscle to promptly identify irregularities, red flags, or patterns of suspicious betting activity especially at minimum-bet sportsbooks and low-deposit casinos. This could help nip potential scandals in the bud before they can unfold and fester like the porter situation. 

Sports gambling regulation in the U.S. has been a state-by-state endeavour dating back decades to when it was first legalized in Nevada. But the modern realities of today’s nationwide sports betting landscape, aided by mobile apps and offshore books, illustrate why a unified federal framework is so critically important from the NBA’s perspective. 

The Background Story of Jontay Porter

The NBA’s forceful advocacy for federal sports betting regulations was propelled by the jaw-dropping scandal involving former player Jontay Porter. In April this year, the league handed down a shocking lifetime ban to the former Raptors role player after an investigation found he had egregiously violated the rules by: 

• Disclosing confidential information about his health status to gambling ringleaders who then deployed that inside intel to gain a betting edge
• Intentionally limiting his playing time and underperforming in games to directly influence the outcomes of certain prop bets
• Personally placing multiple bets on NBA games himself using an associate’s online betting account, including wagering against the Raptors

The specifics of Porter’s case read like a screenplay. In one instance detailed in a federal complaint, Porter notified his gambling associates that he planned to exit a March 20th game early, claiming he felt ill. He ended up playing just 2 minutes and 43 seconds that night in a lopsided loss to Sacramento.  

Some of Porter’s gambling and sports betting partners are alleged to have profited over $1 million in ill-gotten winnings by knowing ahead of time that he would be essentially taking the night off, allowing them to hammer bets on Porter underperforming and the Raptors losing big.  

It was a brazen violation of rules that form the bedrock of fair play and integrity in the NBA. Players exiting games early or intentionally performing below expectations to manipulate betting markets cuts against everything the league stands for in terms of competition.  

“There is nothing more important than protecting the integrity of NBA competition for our fans, our teams and everyone associated with our sport, which is why Jontay Porter’s blatant violations are being met with the most severe punishment,” Commissioner Adam Silver stated firmly when issuing the lifetime ban. 

In the aftermath, federal charges were filed against Porter’s gambling associates as well as the disclosure that the NBA was continuing to share information and cooperate with prosecutors. While Porter himself has not been charged criminally, his lawyer acknowledged the 24-year-old was “in over his head” with a gambling addiction that spiralled out of control. 

The Porter debacle pulled back the curtain on the underbelly of sports gambling corruption that enabled one of the league’s own players to essentially shave points or points in exchange for payouts. It underscored why more stringent regulations and oversight are so vital for maintaining public faith in the legitimacy of NBA games going forward.  

Fans, teams, and everyone involved in the basketball ecosystem deserve to know that the highest standards of competition and integrity are being upheld at all times. No accumulation of gambling winnings for a player is worth sacrificing the reputation of the entire league.  

The NBA recognizes that times have changed and that legal sports betting is here to stay across the United States at minimum bet sportsbooks. Rather than stubbornly fighting the tide, they are embracing the new normal but desperately advocating for federal oversight and uniform rules to be implemented from above to ensure responsible gambling practices are observed.  

Learning from the Porter scandal was painful, but it served as a wake-up call about the dangers of a fractured state-by-state regulatory system. The NBA is making it clear – upholding integrity is the most important thing, and they need coordinated national help from the federal government to ensure no other gambling-related bombshells get dropped, even at the best online casinos.  

Affordable luxury: Spinz $10 VIP Treatment Awaits

By Alisia Berrington

Get ready for the ultimate VIP experience without breaking the bank at one of the best Canadian online casinos! Spinz Casino redefines online gaming as the first brand to bring a built-in live-streaming service directly to its platform. Watch daily streams where these casino experts showcase hot new titles, unveil exciting promotions, and give you a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Spinz Casino tick.

Despite being a Canadian low-deposit casino, players are in for a treat! This site will wow you with a top-tier Welcome Bonus that kicks off with just a $10 deposit. After checking out the action ourselves, we’re hooked – and we bet you will be too! In Canada $10 deposit casinos that stand out as luxurious are rare, so we had to let you in on everything we found.

Claim the 100% Welcome bonus up to $2,000 at Spinz with a $10 deposit

Ready to play and win big? Start with just a $10 deposit and get a 100% bonus up to $2000 as a Welcome Bonus from Spinz Casino, which is also known as the Balance Booster. This is your ticket to levelling up your deposit in a big way!

When you activate this Canadian $10 deposit, your initial deposit gets converted into bonus funds. This bonus also comes with 100 Free Spins that is spread across your first two deposits. Your Free Spins are awarded at 10 a day over a period of 10 days. Each batch of spins expires after 24 hours, so remember to log back in and play every day to unlock the full 100 spins. Welcome Bonus Spins are valued at a minimum of $0.10 each. There are also wagering requirements applicable to this bonus which means any bonus funds would need to be wagered 35 times.

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Players looking for more free spins will be able to buy additional free spins bundles from Spinz Casino.

What contributes to wagering conditions at Spinz

Heads up! Not all games pull equal weight for clearing your bonus. At this casino, this is how it is structured:

• Slots: 100% of your wager counts except for the following games: 1429 Uncharted Seas, Bloodsuckers, Dead or Alive 1 and 2, and others like Eye of the Kraken, Jack Hammer 2, and The Wish Master.
• Table & Live Casino Games: 50% of your wager contributes.
• Video Poker: 0% – these don’t help with your bonus.

Note: Some games cannot be played with Bonus Money, and you will receive an error message when trying to place bets or open a game excluded from bonus play.

All about the Loyalty Rewards at Spinz

There are some juicy rewards for becoming a VIP member of this Canadian online casino.

As a Loyalty member at Spinz Casino, you will be entitled to a personal VIP Account Manager. They will be available via mobile or email for a quick chat or for assistance.

All withdrawals for Loyalty members are prioritized. So, you can jump the queue and get hold of your money in no time.

The Spinz team organizes exclusive VIP events for its most loyal and active members. These include tailor-made holidays and invite-only parties.

Esteemed Loyalty members can get a weekly Cashback bonus of up to 20% that comes with an incredibly low Wagering Requirement of just 1x. The percentage of Cashback you receive is determined by your weekly net deposits at Spinz Casino.

Responsible Gambling Tools at Spinz

This site promotes various personal gaming limits to help players control their gambling spend. The limits include deposit limits and wagering limits, plus time-outs that allow players to ‘cool off’ and take a break from gambling. Most of these controls can be found under the Limits section of your account.

Just to take note, you will always be able to add a completely new limit or lower an existing limit (to make it more stringent) with immediate effect. A request to increase (make less stringent) or remove a chosen limit will require a 24-hour cooldown before the new limit is activated.

Time-outs and Self-Exclusions are also available if your gambling activity is starting to get out of control. To activate a time-out or Self-Exclusion, head to the My Account > Limits section of your account. Once activated, Spinz promises not to send you any marketing communications from 48 hours after your request has been processed.

Available Payment Methods and processing times at Spinz

Spinz offers a wide variety of casino payment options. Bank transfer, by far, is the most popular method by Canadian online casino players. Credit cards and eWallets are also available, but some Canadian banks may not permit withdrawals via credit cards.

Please note that all withdrawals are subject to a minimum withdrawal of $20, and should you encounter an issue, please contact Customer Support.

Here is the list of deposit and withdrawal options available at Spinz.

Background information on Spinz

Spinz is one of four online casinos operated by Rootz Ltd. Other sister sites include Wildz Casino, Wheelz Casino, and Caxino Casino – each with rewards and benefits of their own. You can register individually for these sites to enjoy even more reward opportunities.

Kiwi Deal of the Month

By Ginevra Alessandrello

Set sail for adventure at Kiwis Treasure Casino, MDC’s top pick for the Kiwi Deal of the Month! Dive into a pirate-themed world packed with top-tier pokies and everything a player could want from the NZ online casinos.

New to Kiwis Treasure? Get started with just a $1 deposit and score free spins for a shot at life-changing wins on Microgaming’s thrilling progressive jackpot games. With incredible pokies, table games, and regular promotions, Kiwis Treasure Casino is your ultimate gambling adventure!

Uncovering the fabulous $1 Welcome Bonus at Kiwis Treasure in NZ!

At MDC, we love bringing you jaw-dropping deals at $1 deposit casinos – and with Kiwis Treasure, we have truly hit the jackpot with their unbeatable $1 welcome offer.

When you register at this top-paying online casino NZ and make the minimum deposit of $1, you will immediately collect 50 free spins with no waiting around. Then you’ll get an additional 80 free spins on your second deposit of $5.

But that’s only the beginning because the welcome bonus at this $1 deposit casino in New Zealand includes deposit bonuses on your next four deposits, valued at $1000 in bonus funds.

This adventurous platform makes banking a breeze with all your favourite payment options! Whether you’re using Visa, Mastercard, eWallets like Neteller and Skrill, or even PaySafeCard and Bank Transfers, depositing and withdrawing couldn’t be easier. And here’s the kicker – Kiwis Treasure is also a PayPal Casino NZ, giving you even more flexibility to play your way!

To deposit and withdraw here, Kiwis will find all their favourite payment methods including debit and credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, eWallets Neteller, Skrill, PaySafeCard, Bank Transfer and many more. Remember, Kiwis Treasure is also a PayPal Casino NZ.

This casino usually processes payouts within 24 hours but it also depends on the payment provider you have chosen. Here is the complete breakdown of this welcome bonus package:

This means that you can count on six bonuses and free spins offers when you join Kiwis Treasure with one dollar, but there are terms and conditions to meet if you have any hope of withdrawing your wins.

Wagering requirements are regulated casino conditions that were put in place to ensure no money laundering and bonus abuse happens. To meet the wagering, you will have to re-play your bonus and free spins wins a number of times before they can be converted to withdrawable wins.

The deposit bonus at this minimum deposit Casino NZ has a wagering of 35x, while the free spins need a 200x wagering requirement. Plus, the welcome bonus must be used within the first 7 days of joining. To meet the wagering requirements, these are the games you can play:

• 100% Slots
• 50% NetEnt Slots
• 8% Poker, roulette, video poker
• 2% Blackjack games
• 0% Live Dealer Casino games

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Unpacking the bonus games at Kiwis Treasure

Microgaming is a world-famous casino games provider at the top online casino NZ, and it has created some of the best pokies, table games, and progressive jackpots around.

New players are offered two free spins bonuses for two of Microgaming’s best progressives – Blazing Bison and MegaMoolah. Then there are more bonuses on your next four deposits. For those who don’t know MegaMoolah, it’s one of the most revered progressive jackpots listed in the Guinness Book of Records for the biggest ever payout, over $18 million Kiwi dollars.

All you need to know about the first deposit bonus game – Blazing Bison

Microgaming’s Blazing Bison pokie game has the potential to pay out extraordinary wins across 5-reels and 40-paylines. Set in the wild, untamed plains of North America, where buffalo, eagles, and wolves roam free, Blazing Bison delivers a thrilling experience with excellent graphics and sound effects from howling winds to drum beats that add to the excitement.

Blazing Bison has a 96.5% RTP (Return to Player rate) which is above average, so it promises to deliver great gaming action and potential wins. The betting range is from $0.01 a line up to $2 a line.

If you enjoy fast-action-paced pokies with Scatters, here you get up to 15 free spin bonus rounds with multipliers. It is the perfect storm to land Bison-sized wins.

Get the scoop on your second deposit game – Atlantean Treasure Mega Moolah!

If you’re chasing massive wins, then getting 80 free spins for Atlantean Treasure Mega Moolah is no small feat, and that is also why MDC chose Kiwis Treasure Casino as the Kiwi Deal of the Month.

MegaMoolah: Atlantean Treasure has 5 reels and 25 paylines, and while the RTP% is lower than Blazing Bison, at 92.08%, this is expected in a progressive jackpot game. Bets start at $0.10 a line up to $25, ideal for low and high bettors. The stand-out quality of Atlantean Treasure Mega Moolah is that it’s linked to a jackpot network and pays out four jackpot prizes – Mini, Minor, Major, and the Mega jackpot – where winners take home prizes in the many millions.

Atlantean Treasure has many exciting symbols such as wilds, expanding wilds, and free spins boosted by multipliers. With its whimsical oceanic theme and the chance to win life-changing payouts, Atlantean Treasure MegaMoolah is the ideal game for your 80 free spins.

Summary of the Kiwi deal of the month

The pirate-themed Kiwis Treasure Casino is a cheerful place with all the best pokies, jackpots, poker, roulette, blackjack and baccarat games. With consistent promotions and bonuses, it’s the type of $1 deposit casino NZ that welcomes you into a fun and engaging world of gaming, which is totally safe and secure.

This NZ online casino offers a large range of payment providers, and if you ever run into a glitch, you can call the pirate squad at customer support 24/7.

Players who need to set limits on their playing time or deposits can consult the casino’s responsible gambling section to set deposit limits or self-exclude if needed. There are also links offered to support groups such as the Gambling Helpline, Safer Gambling, and the Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand. You can also take the self-assessment test to check the state of your health.

Navigation at Kiwi Treasure Casino is a breeze with user-friendly menus and a clean layout, and you will be drawn into all the fun through tournaments and competitions. Besides this, you can start with a dollar deposit for hundreds of free spins and try winning a progressive jackpot prize. So, don’t miss out, this is the time to try your luck and possibly win big.

South African Casinos with Great Bonuses

South African casinos cater to players living in a fascinating, magnificent country with breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife. Outdoor people are known worldwide for their rugby, golf, soccer, and cricket skills. South African online casino sites cater to a unique audience, passionate about music, having fun, and winning. We only promote licensed and regulated casinos on our site and guide players via fact-based reviews. Join us as we take a virtual tour to explore outstanding bonuses ranked according to requirements and look at payment options available at the best online casinos for South Africans.

Get 25 free Spins from LulaBet Casino

LulaBet Casino caters to specific needs and requirements of South Africans by offering an exceptional selection of casino games, Sports betting and offers an exclusive deposit R50, bet on any casino games & claim 25 no wager free spins offer. Read our Lulabet Casino review to discover why this is an exceptional deal that offers 25 free spins on the highly popular Starburst slot.

Qualify by registering for the first time with LulaBet, make the R50 minimum deposit required, place real money bets on any slots or live games to the full amount and enjoy 25 free spins on Starburst. The winnings from the free spins are credited as cash, which means all winnings are paid in cash and can be withdrawn or used to win even more.

Maximize your chances of winning at the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board regulated casino by claiming this offer instantly via debit or credit card, EFT, payment vouchers or Zapper. Use the free spins within 7 days after activation, T&C apply.

Games available at LulaBet Casino include classic, video slots, and a phenomenal selection of branded and MegaWays slots by Red Tiger Gaming and NetEnt. Members can also enjoy the best live roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and game shows by Evolution Gaming.

Betway will Double your First Deposit on casino games with their great bonus

Betway Casino invites South Africans to pick one of two 100% first deposit match offers. The 100% Betway Casino bonus worth up to R2,000.00 can be claimed by players registering for a new account and a R5 minimum deposit made within 30 days of registration. Our Betway Casino review provides all the information about this remarkable South African minimum deposit online casino.

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The Betway 100% first deposit bonus instantly doubles your first deposit and is exclusive to South African citizens or anyone who permanently resides in the country older than 18 years. The welcome bonus is subject to 30x wagering within 30 days of bonus activation. Full bonus terms and conditions apply, read this section to find out more about game contributions.

Licensed by the Western Cape Government, Betway offers a free downloadable IOS and Android app to ensure a great mobile experience. The buffet of offers available to all members include improved chances to win massive jackpots and claim a share of Takealot vouchers worth R2,500. The games library at Betway Casino includes slots and live dealer games by Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, and Evolution Gaming.

Hollywood Bets leads the pack with a R25 bonus and 50 free spins

After 14 years of uncertainty, the Democratic Alliance introduced a law regulating online gambling in South Africa, which makes it legal to enjoy online gambling at operators licensed within the country and complaint with FICA. Although, the 2022 legislation is not published yet, it created huge interest in the country leading to an inflow of remarkable Casino and Sportsbetting brands. Great news for locals, now benefiting from the fierce competition leading to incredible bonuses and offers available to South Africans only.

HollywoodBets was started by a South African and became one of the leading online casinos and bookmakers, providing both excellent casino games and betting options. Causing wave of excitement, one of the biggest wins published in January 2023 was worth R8,663,521.00.

Learn more about this impressive site in our Hollywoodbet casino review, sign up and qualify for a South African exclusive R25 sign-up bonus and 50 free spins. The free spins are valid on games by premier software developer Habanero and worth 60c per spin. The maximum real money payout on this brilliant offer is limited to a maximum of R1,200 per player.

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In 2020, the addition of Evolution Gaming and Ezugi titles was celebrated ensuring South African players can enjoy some of the best live dealer games. Excellent titles include Blackjack Party, Live Speed Blackjack, Live Ultimate Texas, Hold’em, Crazy Time, Lightning Dice, and Live Deal or No Deal.

Great bonuses from licensed South African Casinos

The future of online gambling looks promising with legislation that promotes a safe and regulated environment. The implementation of well-structured regulations not only ensures growth but also make it possible for the South African Government to raise significant tax revenue from the online market with a positive impact on the economic growth.

Minimumdepositcasinos.org closely follow all developments in the county and welcomes the new regulations, which is to the benefit of all players. We only promote casinos that offers regulated entertainment and continue to negotiate exclusive deals for players at South African online casinos.

Our trusted ZA casino reviews are based on facts, aimed to provide players from South Africa with correct information about licensing, security, and bonus values, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Due to the ever-increasing number of brands that enters the market, we not only review FICA approved online sites, but also do comparisons to ensure we only guide you towards the best sites.

According to statistics by the South African National Gambling Board, the GGR / gross gambling revenue increased from R23.25 billion in 2020/21 to show a massive increase by reaching R34.43 billion in 2021/22. The online gambling market in estimated to be worth R2 billion, which is not an accurate figure and could be even higher.

Bonus abuse and how payment and verification controls are not enough

By Ginevra Alessandrello

In the exciting and fast-paced realm of Top Online Casinos, fortunes can change with the roll of a dice. What is important to note is that not everyone plays within the same rules. Bonus abuse has been on the rise and this is where strict verification processes when signing up is important.

The gambling industry works long and hard to fortify itself against this type of abuse at the best Online Casinos and has adopted cutting-edge casino payment options and verification procedures to guard against fraud. However, this is not always enough, as some resourceful criminals can bypass even the most sophisticated security measures.

Fraud has become a real menace for the online casino industry, and so greater safeguards are needed. Every day, Best Online Casinos struggle with players who indulge in bonus and payment abuse, costing casino operators billions.

Fraudsters scale across multiple identities by using unique devices and IP addresses for each identity. Their crimes range from the creation of multiple accounts to abuse bonuses, affiliate fraud, and money laundering. When fraud analysts talk about gambling fraud, they refer to every unlawful scheme carried out by professional or amateur fraudsters to extract funds and bonuses from casinos. Online casinos are a soft target because of their easy accessibility.

Popular movies have glamourized gambling fraud

Famous Hollywood movies such as ‘Oceans Eleven’ and ‘3,000 Miles to Graceland’ have glamourized gambling crimes like casino heists and fraud involving internet hacking. These movies detail how criminals to go great lengths to exploit the gambling system and security vulnerabilities.

What’s even worse is that these hit movies are loved for the way these crimes are carried out. Criminal characters are adored and almost seen to be role models.

These movies showcase the allure of the gambling world and how some people exploit them. Both films reveal how players take risks and defy the odds to get away with as much casino money as possible.

Types of online gambling abuse in today’s digital world

In the real world, fraudsters are resourceful, and creative and employ many ways to exploit vulnerabilities at online casinos and sportsbooks to get an unfair advantage. They use multiple identities and unique devices to get what they want. They pretend to be regular players and pass numerous verification processes to get bonuses and promotions.

Fraudsters evade detection algorithms by constantly switching devices and IP addresses. This undermines the security measures in place designed to find and prevent fraudulent activities from taking place.

In addition to identity manipulation, fraudsters take advantage of digital wallets and virtual cards to deposit and withdraw. Digital wallets like PayPal and Skrill go above and beyond to ensure complete security when making online casino payments. Still, scammers exploit these platforms to launder money, bypass payment controls, and conceal their illicit activities.

Virtual cards linked to fake identities or stolen credit card information allow them to deposit at a casino and cash out their winnings without leaving even one trace of what they do. Fake documents to bypass verification checks and gain access to online casinos include fake IDs, utility bills, and bank statements. They create the illusion of legitimacy to deceive casinos.

Operators need to be better equipped to identify gambling fraud

Artificial intelligence (AI) has now been unveiled in the world, making detecting forgeries even more difficult, especially regarding online casino fraud. Scammers use AI-powered tools and algorithms so that they can deceive even the most discerning eyes. This includes falsified documents, counterfeit payments, and stolen identities to get unauthorized access to sensitive information.

AI mimics human behaviour and can create realistic replicas of legitimate documents and identities. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast data to identify patterns and generate forgeries virtually indistinguishable from authentic counterparts.

Because of the many challenges, online casino operators must become more proactive and find better approaches to combat gambling fraud. Some strategies include implementing AI-based fraud detection systems and enhanced identity verification processes.

Online casinos can collaborate with partners, regulatory authorities, and law enforcement to share intelligence and combat online fraud. By using a holistic approach to fraud detection and prevention, online casino operators can leverage AI’s power to avoid fraud and bonus abuse.

By making security and fraud detection their priority and collaborating with other companies in the gambling industry, online casinos and sportsbooks can create a safer and more secure environment for their gambling clients.

Preventing bonus abuse at casinos

Casino bonuses are rewards that the best online casinos and sportsbooks use to attract new players to their casinos. Bonuses range from 100% deposit bonuses, no-deposit free spins, free money or even free credit to play on a casino’s website.

Casino bonuses offer a great way to take an online casino for a test drive with bonus cash and see if you like the casino games and the platform. If you end up walking away with a little bit of money, all the better.

There are many rules that go along with casino bonuses, and these were instituted to prevent players from abusing the system. One of these is wagering requirements, but there’s always a chance that someone will find a new loophole or slip through the cracks.

To prevent bonus abuse, players must meet wagering requirements and some other terms and conditions. Most players play by the rules, but fraudsters make it their mission to break the rules so as to steal money.

When registering at a new online casino, you must complete KYC (Know Your Customers) protocols, which are in place to prevent bonus abuse and money laundering.

But don’t worry about anything because if you conduct your business ethically, you won’t have to concern yourself about bonus abuse. To protect yourself online, only play at licensed casinos with all the required security features. Yes, online casinos might need a lot of documents from players when signing up but this is a good thing. The more stricter the verification process, the more safer it is for players.

Indonesian govt holds talks with Google to obliterate online gambling with AI

Indonesia is not giving up on its fight against gambling. It is so determined to rid the country of gambling that it has enlisted the help of Google to crack down on the best online casinos and minimum bet sportsbooks.  

This fresh approach follows the implementation of removing some 800,000 online gambling websites since 2023. But this was not enough, as offshore gambling sites continued to emerge and operate in Indonesia. 

So, the Communications Ministry took a different approach. Communications and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi held talks with Google to discuss the usage of artificial intelligence (AI) in eradicating online gambling, even going as far as labelling it a “scam”. 

So, when exactly will this be introduced?  For now, he says that the AI method is still in the testing stage.  

“As a form of Google’s participation in government programs, they will help us to eradicate online gambling with AI technology.”  

Minister Setiadi

He said the use of AI would be in line with Google’s focus, which, in the last year, developed many innovations in its services based on AI. Therefore, believes that similar steps can be implemented by Google in Indonesia, which is currently fighting online casinos. 

According to Indonesian law, gambling is a criminal offence. It is illegal for locals and foreigners, punishable by a fine of up to 1 billion rupiah, or 6 years jail time.  There are also no proper casinos in the country. Indonesia follows Sharia Law, which means any form of gambling is considered a sin.  

What was discussed at the meeting with Google

The two parties discussed reporting, and how to speed up processing of reports on online gambling content. With the help of AI, the process of identifying and handling online gambling content would be carried out faster and more accurately, compared to the human method.  

The minister asked Google to immediately apply AI technology, and such an implementation would also take into account aspects of good governance and cybersecurity.  

Background of the online gambling crackdown in Indonesia

Since 2023, the Indonesian government has been trying to rid the country of gambling websites. So far, it has taken down over 800,000 online casino sites, including sportsbooks and online casinos. 

At the end of May 2024, the president reassigned the national task force with the mandate to dismantle the online gambling ecosystem in Indonesia. It ordered banks to block over 4,000 bank accounts implicated in online gambling and embarked on tracing gambling money. 

Recent government data suggests that the 2023 “fund circulation” in the country stood at around 327 trillion rupiah, which is roughly $27.5 billion. Fund circulation refers to the amount of money people won, spent, and lost through gambling. The Government has also taken note that there was a high number of bank loans taken out, and it strongly believes gambling debt is the reason for it.   

The government’s stance is aimed at curbing the high number of loans being taken out by gamblers, who are in severe debt. But whether the debts are actually linked to gambling cannot be verified or confirmed.  

However, what we do know is that even private banks have been approached by the government to assist in this fight against top online casinos.  

The issue of gambling in Indonesia has been in the spotlight for decades. But despite efforts to get rid of it, more gambling sites have emerged online. The government continues to battle with blocking them. This is because many of these online casinos are located offshore, operating from regions like Cambodia and the Philippines.  

In a text message, Minister Setiadi told The Strait Times that they were working towards creating public campaigns to convey their message to gamblers.  

“Nobody could win by betting their money against a machine that is designed to always be in profit,”     

Minister Setiadi

The government is so determined to win this war that it has even gone to the extent of pleading for help from Interpol, especially since many of these best online casinos are in different regions, where the Indonesian government has no jurisdiction.  

It asked Interpol to help them shut down these gambling sites.  

Indonesia is a country is made up of an 87% Muslim population, and it follows strict Sharia laws.  To give some context about how strict they are, we decided to look at other activities considered taboo in Indonesia.  

Smoking, for instance, is prohibited in public spaces and public transport, and other vicinities. Foreign travellers to the country are restricted with the number of cigarettes they can bring along. According to their law, travellers can bring a maximum of 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars- that’s it. Nothing more is allowed.  

The government is so strict that it has even outlawed drinking in most public spaces. Penalties for breaking the law is extremely harsh. Travellers who overstay their welcome face penalties such as blacklisting and deportation.  

So, given all of this, it’s not hard to see why the country is so adamant about gambling. It does not care if an online casino is regulated or not. It just will not allow it. It just wants to rid the nation of gambling in its entirety once and for all. And this is why, it has prioritized its war against gambling operators.