Tag: online casinos
Indonesia Blocks DuckDuckGo Over Gambling and Porn Concerns
Indonesia has pulled the plug on the privacy-focused search engine DuckDuckGo, citing its role in facilitating access to illegal gambling and pornography websites. The Ministry of Communications announced the ban, reflecting the nation’s stringent regulations. This relates to ridding the country of the best online casinos and minimum-bet sportsbooks.
With the largest Muslim population globally, Indonesia has strict online content policies, already blocking platforms like Reddit and Vimeo. The latest move targets DuckDuckGo following numerous complaints about its search results, said Usman Kansong, a ministry official told Reuters.
“Despite its privacy features, DuckDuckGo has been misused for accessing gambling and pornographic content,” Kansong said in an interview with Reuters. The ministry, however, did not clarify how DuckDuckGo’s search results differ from those of other major search engines like Google.
DuckDuckGo promotes itself as a guardian of online privacy, offering tools to protect user data. However, its recent block in Indonesia aligns with the country’s aggressive stance against online gambling. Government data shows that last year, around 3 million Indonesians participated in online gambling, spending an estimated $20 billion, which constitutes about 1.5% of the nation’s GDP.
Meanwhile, Reddit has also clamped down on search engines and AI bots accessing its data, excluding Google, which retains special access. This restriction follows Reddit’s recent rule updates aimed at prioritizing paid data access.
In a related development, DuckDuckGo introduced AI Chat features in June, allowing users to interact with popular AI chatbots without compromising personal information. Although this feature has daily limits, DuckDuckGo plans to expand it with more chatbot models soon.
Indonesia’s capital city blocks access to Free VPN in gambling crackdown
Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, has also announced plans to block access to free virtual private network (VPN) services. This bold strategy is part of a broader national campaign aimed at dismantling top online casinos and minimum-bet sportsbooks in the country.
Communication and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi stated that while the government had successfully shut down thousands of gambling sites, apps, and promotional content in recent months, free VPN services still enable users to bypass these efforts and access foreign-based websites.
“Free VPNs are a gateway for ordinary people to engage in online gambling,” Setiadi declared during the Digital Transformation Indonesia seminar at the Jakarta Convention Center.
“We will cut off this access to protect our digital landscape.”
Budi emphasized that online gambling poses a significant threat to productivity and the integrity of the national digital transformation.
“Online gambling is the dark underbelly of digitalization,” he remarked.
Indonesia’s war against online gambling was ramped up in the past few months when the government even sought the help of Google to crack down on the best online casinos, casinos with a minimum deposit, and minimum bet sportsbooks.
This approach follows the implementation of removing some 800,000 online gambling websites since 2023.
Setiadi also 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”.
For now, the AI method is still in the testing stage. He noted that 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, he believes that similar steps can be implemented by Google in Indonesia to fight 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.
Background of the 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 low-deposit 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.
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.
But what we do know is that even private banks have been approached by the government to assist in this fight against top online casinos and low-deposit 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.
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 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 public transport, and other vicinities. Foreign travellers to the country are restricted in 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 are 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.
Indonesian govt at war with online casinos – 800,000 gambling websites taken down
The Indonesian government is on a warpath to rid the country of online casinos. This is irrespective of whether they are licensed or not. In the past year, Indonesia has taken down around 800,000 online casino sites in its no-nonsense approach. This has sparked debate about the reasons behind the move.
While outsiders view the country as the tropical travel destination of Bali and the elusive Komodo dragon, inside there is a lot happening to remove top online casinos and gambling as a pastime.
To put some perspective on this, did you know that Indonesia is home to around 2.7 million online gamblers? 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.
This has put the government on the edge of its seat to the point of even naming and shaming online casinos as a “scam”. As part of this war against online gambling operators, the Ministry of Communications and Informatics moved swiftly between 2023 and 2024, taking down some 800,000 online gambling sites. But despite this effort, more gambling sites have emerged online, and the government is battling to block them. This is because many of these online casinos are located offshore, operating from regions like Cambodia and the Philippines.
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.
In a text message, Communications and Informatics Minister Budi Arie 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,” Setiadi is quoted as saying in the message.
Govt seeks help from Interpol and other ministries
So determined and motivated is the Indonesian government that it has even called on other unrelated government departments to assist in the task of combatting online casinos. This multi-agency approach is to enhance its crackdown even further.
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 has asked Interpol to help them shut down these gambling sites.
Another reason for the Indonesian government’s push is because it believes this will help curb 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.
But what we do know is that even private banks in Indonesia have been approached by the government to assist in their fight against top online casinos.
Banks Tracing Money Trails
Decision-makers have also gotten banks on board with this fight. It has ordered banks in the country to block at least 4,000 bank accounts, which they believe could be implicated in online gambling.
Media reports have indicated that Indonesia’s Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre will continue tracing these money trails and will prioritize blocking accounts of people found gambling at online casinos.
Bank Central Asia spokeswoman Hera Haryn told the media: “We never facilitate online gambling in any form and will block any account used for online gambling.”
While so much is being done to curb gambling, the one question that remains is whether or not the taken-down sites were licensed or not.
Indonesia’s strict laws are across many activities
Indonesia is a country 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, public transport, and other vicinities. Foreign travellers to the country are restricted in 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, it has even outlawed drinking in most public spaces. Penalties for breaking the law are extremely harsh. Travellers who overstay their welcome also face penalties such as blacklisting and deportation.
So, it then makes sense why the government has taken such a tough stance against top online casinos. It clearly does not matter whether an online casino is regulated or not, or whether it is licensed or not. To them, it does not matter is a casino site has responsible gambling tools or not. To the lawmakers of Indonesia, none of this matters.
It just wants to rid the nation of gambling in its entirety once and for all. And this is why, it has prioritized the taking down of gambling sites.
Indonesian lawmakers establish new task force to eliminate online gambling
By Ramona Depares
Indonesia has some of the strictest anti-gambling laws in the world, and games of chance are prohibited both at physical and online casinos. However, as has been evidenced in other countries where online gambling remains unregulated, this hasn’t stopped the proliferation of illegal sites, with a vast number of Indonesians forging ahead and trying their luck at various casino games despite the blanket ban.
The situation has led Communications and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi to create a special task force to wage war on the phenomenon that is creating considerable challenges for problem players, particularly those within the lower-income group.
Indonesian press reported that the Minister announced the setting up of this task force during an official meeting with President Joko Widodo at the Presidential Palace. Following the meeting, he confirmed with Antara Indonesian News Agency that the ministry will continue to focus on eliminating online casinos from the country and that the newly instituted task force will work in tandem with law enforcement officials so as to ensure any measures are implemented.
In Indonesia, the revenue garnered from illegal gambling is considerable, with the Center for Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis (PPATK) reporting that there were around 327 trillion Rupees, the equivalent of $20.19 billion in circulation from this industry. Of particular concern is the fact that many who engage in illegal gambling come from a low-income group.
Speaking to the press, Minister Budi Arie Setiadi noted that in 2024, four people have already died by suicide after falling victim to online gambling problems, adding that “this country must be serious (in tackling the issue)”. Promising “dramatic steps” will be taken to correct the problem, he even referred to the possibility of putting those involved in the illegal industry under arrest.
Blocking of bank accounts linked to online gambling
Measures to start counteracting the problem already started in past months, with Minister Setiadi telling the press that since July 2023 the government has already taken down close to 1 million online gambling content pieces, but that the digital space was “still tainted” with the remains of online gambling. Comparing online casinos to mosquitos, he said that the removal of some sites didn’t mean that new ones wouldn’t crop up.
He urged the public to continue filing reports of illegal gambling, promising to respond even though his department couldn’t take any direct enforcement action and to continue “blocking, shutting down, and taking down all games that involve the practices of online gambling in the digital space”.
In January of this year, he gave the Indonesian press an update, stating that his ministry had managed to block access to over 800,000 items of online gambling.
The mass shutdown, he revealed, was the result of a long 5-year operation. The operation did not only target the online casinos themselves but also any content that promoted it. The Directorate General of Informatics in fact revealed that the ministry had shut down access to 596,348 items of content on sites and IP addresses, 173,134 on Meta platforms, 29,257 on file-sharing platforms, 5,993 on Google and YouTube platforms, 367 on X, 170 on Telegram, 15 on TikTok,8 in the App Store, and 1 in SnackVideo.
Bank accounts and e-wallets suspected of handling online gambling funds were also targeted, with the ministry collaborating with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to block more than 5,000 such accounts. Mahendra Siregar, chair of the board of commissioners of the OJK, acknowledged that the blocking of bank accounts would not be enough to 100% eradicate digital gambling, describing the phenomenon of online casinos as a “transnational issue”.
Conceding that a substantial portion of illegal activity did not involve bank accounts, he referred to online casinos that accept cryptocurrencies and admitted that it would be very difficult to track down such transactions and stop them. Indonesia has banned the use of cryptocurrencies as a whole, making it even more difficult to collect such data.
“To this end, layer by layer, the eradication must be completed so that there is no empty space that continues to exist because we can see that the root problem has not been resolved completely,” he told Antara news agency.
Together with Minister Setiadi, he also called on internet service providers and mobile operators to strengthen efforts to eradicate online gambling by improving the system synchronization accuracy of the database of sites that contain online gambling content.
Meanwhile, the latest update given by the Communication and Informatics (Kominfo) Ministry in April 2024 confirmed that the drive to monitor and cut off access to online casinos continues thanks to the dedicated task force. During a press conference, Deputy Minister Nezar Patria stated that a team of 150 people were housed on the eighth floor of the Kominfo Ministry Building and were dedicating their time 24 on 7 to take down online casinos.
Working in three shifts, the task force is using AI and web crawler software to analyze websites. Any content deemed to relate to online gambling is blocked so as to stop Indonesians from accessing it. So far, the team has succeeded in blocking some 1.5 million sites that contain online gambling content.
The exercise has seen even giants like Meta and X come under fire from the Indonesian government, for failing to stop gambling content from reaching IP addresses in the country. In February of this year, the Kominfo Ministry had ‘summoned’ X (formerly Twitter) representative to discuss how the popular platform was handling online gambling adverts.
The deputy minister further highlighted that his side had been in coordination with operators of digital platforms, such as Meta and X, to take down circulating negative digital content. The main bone of contention was an advertisement featuring a public figure that the ministry had already requested be taken down. The advert had caused offence among Indonesians, some of whom claimed that it was appearing in their newsfeed despite them not following the account.
Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan, director general of informatics application at the ministry, said the ministry intended to ask X to develop a technology or special algorithms to detect online gambling advertisements. X has not released any comments to the press about the matter.
Background of gambling in Indonesia
Despite gambling having been banned in Indonesia as early as November 1974, the online sector is still thriving. In a study conducted by VOI, it was found that – out of the 8.5 trillion Rupiah that were in circulation in the country in 2022 – 1% emanated from gambling. In 2023, the PPATK conceded that that figure was likely higher, with almost 2.5% of money in circulation coming from gambling.
The blanket ban is closely tied to religious reasons, with Indonesia’s strict Islamic law quoted as one of the reasons why the government is unlikely to budge.
The future of gambling in Indonesia
Enforcement of the gambling ban appears to have reached an impasse, with government ministries and agencies already working at full capacity to take down related content. However, despite these continued collaborations, the shift towards the use of cryptocurrencies is making gambling transactions even more difficult to trace.
One solution would be the creation of a regulated infrastructure that would guarantee only the top online casinos with a solid responsible gambling programme would get to operate within the country.
However, this does not appear to be on the radar as yet. Instead, the government now appears to be looking at a digital literacy campaign focused on educating Indonesians about the risks of online gambling and how they can protect themselves. Meanwhile, the drive to stop transnational transactions continues.
Over 1,000 Korean children arrested for online gambling, some operating gambling sites
By Ramona Depares
If there’s one thing that can be definitely said for the top online casinos, it’s that there’s no way that any underaged gambling is going to be tolerated. Unfortunately, this cannot be said of some unscrupulous gambling sites that don’t operate within the standards required of a gambling license and that don’t need to worry about best practices and industry reputation.
This is exactly what happened in South Korea when more than 1,000 children were busted while gambling online. Korean media house YaniSafak.com reported that the youngest of these was just 9 years old and that many of the youngsters have had to be sent for counselling.
The story helps underscore the need for online casinos that are regulated and that subscribe to responsible gambling policies, as such sites have all the safeguards in place to make underaged gambling almost impossible.
What will happen to the children?
According to press reports, the children were discovered as part of a bigger police drive to crack down on illegal online casinos and betting. Some 3,000 people were discovered to be making use of unauthorized gambling sites, with 1035 of these found to be underage. The police have already arrested 75 of the adult gamblers apprehended.
However, it remains unclear what exactly will happen to the 1035 underaged gamblers. Around 700 of them have been sent to counselling centres. The Yonhap News Agency detailed how the investigation into the illegal gambling ring took more than 6 months and resulted in around $45 million in illegal winnings being seized.
The vast majority of underage gamblers were high school students, while there were 228 children attending middle school and another 7 in University. The biggest shock was the discovery of two elementary schoolers. The youngest, aged 9, had been found to have bet the equivalent of around $4,000.
Even more worryingly, some 12 teenagers are being accused of actually running illegal online casinos. Around 41.9 % of the children and young teens found to have been gambling online said they were placing bets on baccarat tables.
Sporting bets appeared to be the second most popular with 19.8% of bets, while casino games ranked at 17.1% and slots at 14.7%. The police investigation revealed more than 1,000 financial accounts held under the names of adolescents were being used to manage gambling funds.
South Korean police are expected to kick off another intensive crackdown later this month, to continue targeting harmful online content and to prevent the proliferation of gambling-related crimes.
Head of the National Office of Investigation Woo Jong-soo said: “Given the concerns of youth gambling, we will rigorously enforce the law against both gamblers and operators of gambling sites.” However, while the adults involved will certainly be facing legal proceedings and are already being kept in custody, South Korean police so far have limited themselves to sending the children to a specialized counselling centre.
Prior to doing this, they obtained both the children’s and the legal guardians’ consent for this. However, all the winnings obtained from the illegal online casinos were taken away from them.
The problem of underage illegal gambling is a long-standing one in South Korea. In November 2023, news agency Yonhap reported how many teens were trying to “piece together their lives” after suffering a gambling addiction.
The preferred legal action so far has always been that of counselling, with one of the affected children telling the same news agency that it was his teacher who originally figured out that there was a problem. As a result, the youngster was asked to join a group of teenagers who were facing similar problems at the National Center for Youth Internet Addiction Treatment, which is located in Muju, 190 kilometres away from the capital of Seoul.
The centre specializes in providing mental counselling and getting young people’s minds off betting and was opened in 2014 after being repurposed from an old school. In its early days, it was focused on treating teenagers who had grown overly dependent on smartphones and on internet use. It was only in 2023 that a pilot program was launched for students addicted to gambling at online casinos.
Each child attends a two-week program that includes one-on-one and group counselling sessions, sports and music clubs, and financial awareness classes that aim to deter and treat gambling addiction. Bae Young-tae, the head of the centre, revealed to the media that the programs focus heavily on offering “alternative activities” that teens and children can enjoy without needing their smartphones. These include learning how to play an instrument, reading and teaching them other hobbies.
Because the problem of gambling arises online, South Korean authorities believe that teaching young people how to exercise self-control over their electronic devices is the key to the problem, as this over-dependence is the one common element that those facing a gambling addiction have.
However, the government has faced criticism for not doing enough for those children who are caught carrying out problem gambling. Lee Hae-kook, a professor of medicine at the Catholic University of Korea, is one of these. He claims that these teens need to be linked to psychiatric health institutions that will “completely intervene in the process to support their struggles with gambling”. The professor, who has created a counselling manual to treat teens facing gambling problems, added that “running a treatment camp” is far from being enough.
Youth cyber gambling soars in South Korea
South Korea has seen a sharp increase in problem gambling among children and young people in recent years, as well as illegal gambling in general. To put things into perspective, in 2015 there were 51 youngsters receiving treatment at the National Center for Youth Internet Addiction Treatment. By 2023, that number had increased by 28 times, with 1400 youngsters being referred to the centre according to the Korea Problem Gambling Agency.
A study by the Korean Institute of Criminology and Justice (KICJ) revealed in 2023 that illegal online gambling has grown more sophisticated and widespread since the pandemic. Between 2018 and 2023, the South Korean illegal gambling market experienced a growth of 91%, expanding to what the study described as an “uncontrollable level”.
The same study called for the government to review its approach to youth-focused illegal gambling regulations and prevention policies. Figures revealed that at least 40% of adults involved in illegal gambling used to belong to the group at risk for gambling addiction in their adolescence, which is a clear indication that government policies are not working.
The source of the problem appears to be the fact that it’s ridiculously easy for an underage child to open an account at an illegal online casino. The registration process for such sites only requires a bank account under the player’s name – no age or identity checks are carried out. Young children are lured to these sites by word-of-mouth invitations and direct messages on their smartphones as well as online and social media advertising.
A survey conducted in May 2023 among 880,000 middle school first graders and high school freshmen resulted in nearly 29,000 students being found to be at risk of online gambling, according to the South Korean gender ministry.
Will regulated online casinos provide the answer for South Korea?
Incidents like these have prompted authorities to look at the European and North American models, where the emphasis is on creating a legal infrastructure as experience has shown that players are more likely to choose the top online casinos that offer safety and security, rather than their illegal counterparts.
In fact, the KICJ study recommended the promotion of the legal online casino industry as the best strategy that could buck the trend of underaged gambling. Whether the government will follow this advice remains to be seen.
Lottery license issued in UAE as it moves towards legalized gambling
By Alisia Berrington
In a landmark move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has granted its first-ever lottery license, a step that could herald the introduction of top online casinos and other forms of gaming in the country including minimum bet sportsbooks. Operators across the world are closely monitoring this development.
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) announced that The Game LLC, a commercial gaming operator specializing in game development, lottery operations, and gaming-related content, will run the UAE Lottery. Details on the launch date and format of the lottery remain undisclosed. The Game LLC, based in Abu Dhabi, has yet to comment on the announcement.
Newly appointed head of GCGRA Jim Murren said: “It marks the establishment of a disciplined world-class regulatory framework for lottery activities and underscores our commitment to nurturing a secure and enriched commercial gaming environment in the UAE.”
Bloomberg Intelligence estimates that legalizing the best online casinos could attract more tourists and investments, potentially generating gaming revenue equivalent to 1.3% of the UAE’s GDP – about $6.6 billion, surpassing Singapore’s figures.
Background on gambling in UAE
Historically, the UAE has permitted raffle draws in supermarkets, airports, and malls, with prizes often reaching millions of dollars. Local banks and Dubai Airport’s duty-free shops have also sold raffle tickets, although the government recently requested the suspension of some major raffle organizers’ activities.
Gambling, which is prohibited under Islam, might see a significant shift as the country has laid the groundwork for its move towards legalized gambling.
The GCGRA has stated that gaming companies could apply to operate in all seven emirates of the UAE.
Late in 2023, the UAE made headlines when it announced that it was creating a new federal authority to regulate commercial gaming activities. This surprising move positioned the UAE to become the first country in the Gulf region to legalize gambling, marking a major shift for the traditionally conservative Islamic nation.
The move to create GCGRA did not come out of nowhere. Over the past few years, the UAE has been progressively relaxing its stance on gambling.
If regulated best online casinos do indeed become a reality, gaming industry analysts estimate the economic impact could be immense.
The introduction of casinos with a minimum deposit could potentially generate $6.6 billion in annual gaming revenue across the UAE. That would likely make the country one of the top gaming markets globally behind only Macau, Las Vegas and Singapore.
A report from the Telegraph further underscores the massive upside, suggesting the UAE has an opportunity to become the gambling capital of the Middle East. With its extravagant luxury establishments and appeal to the ultra-wealthy, the region certainly possesses the necessary ingredients.
Of course, significant unknowns remain around exactly how gambling will be implemented across the UAE’s different emirates. Local laws and regulations are still being formulated and leaders will need to balance economic gains against cultural considerations within each area.
Regardless of the complexities, the consensus is clear – the UAE gambling market holds incredible potential. The opportunity to generate billions in gaming revenue annually and transform the Middle East’s tourism landscape is real and substantial.
Jim Murren heads up to gaming regulatory authority
Just recently, Jim Murren was appointed to the help of the gaming regulatory authority in UAE. The GCGRA was set up to oversee all gambling operations with Murren’s appointment helping to add weight to the endeavor. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge in this field.
Jim Murren joined MGM in 1998 as Chief Financial Officer, and his rise was meteoric from there. Within a year, he became President, a post he served for almost a decade. He was then appointed Chief Operating Officer in 2007. Just a year later, he became Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International.
Murren’s leadership was immediately tested. The 2008 financial crisis hit hard and like most industries, the casino space reeled. Yet, Murren steered MGM through turbulent waters, surviving while most others faltered. Under Murren’s guidance, MGM expanded aggressively. In 2000, they acquired Mirage Resorts for $6.4 billion. Five years later, they bought Mandalay Resort Group for $7.9 billion. These bold moves transformed MGM into an industry titan.
But Murren wasn’t solely focused on profits. He championed workplace diversity. MGM became a model of inclusion under his watch. His philanthropic efforts were notable too.
For example, together with his wife, they created the Nevada Cancer Institute. Also, in 2020, he joined Nevada’s COVID-19 response group shortly after quitting MGM.
Jim Murren’s New Frontier in UAE
Now Murren faces a new frontier. Leading the GCGRA is a monumental task especially given that the UAE’s gambling industry is still in its infancy. He must now shape its future but his vast experience makes him uniquely qualified for this role, especially when dealing with low-deposit casinos, minimum-bet sportsbooks, and top-rated online casinos.
The UAE’s decision is projected to alter its tourism landscape. Experts believe it will attract different kinds of tourists. Particularly, high-rollers and gaming enthusiasts are widely expected to flock to the region. Yet, challenges loom large.
Balancing gambling with local values is tricky. The region will aim to boost the economy without compromising culture, so a delicate dance.
Philippines Shuts Down Offshore Gambling Operations Targeting Chinese Players
The Philippines has announced a sweeping ban on offshore gaming operators which includes the best online casinos, specifically those targeting Chinese gamblers.
Locally known as POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators), these establishments have proliferated across the nation, both legally and illegally, employing tens of thousands of Chinese and other foreign nationals.
However, in a bold move during his State of the Nation address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr declared an immediate and total shutdown of the offshore gambling industry. This includes minimum-bet sportsbooks and top online casinos.
“Effective today, all POGOs are banned,” Marcos announced to a standing ovation from lawmakers, emphasizing the escalating issues related to this industry.
“Masquerading as legitimate enterprises, their operations have expanded into areas far removed from gaming, such as financial scams, money laundering, prostitution,” he said.
This comes as Marcos takes a firm stance against Chinese-linked operations amidst growing diplomatic tensions between Manila and Beijing over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The Chinese government is likely to support this move, given that gambling is prohibited in China, except in Macao, and Beijing has been intensifying efforts to combat cross-border gambling, particularly in Southeast Asia.
The announcement was made during his third State of the Nation address on July 22, 2024. According to the country’s gaming regulator, there are over 40 licensed offshore gaming operators and numerous illicit gambling hubs in the Philippines, all of which Marcos has ordered to be shut down by the end of the year.
The POGO sector saw significant growth in the Philippines starting in 2016 under Marcos’ predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, who critics say ignored suspected illicit activities as the industry brought in billions of pesos in state revenue. This came from low-deposit casinos, minimum-bet sportsbooks and best online casinos. As a result, the Philippines became a major hub for online gambling, serving tens of thousands of players from China.
The surge of online casinos in the Philippines
In recent years, Southeast Asia has seen a surge in online casino scam syndicates, profiting from players worldwide, including in China and the United States. This became more pressing during the COVID-19 pandemic. News reports from CNN indicate that many working for these scam syndicates are themselves victims of human trafficking.
CNN reported that POGOs have persisted because they brought substantial revenue to local treasuries and created many jobs throughout the country. However, these gaming hubs had also spawned various criminal activities, allegedly damaging China’s image among the Filipino public.
Some POGOs operate in abandoned malls, while others are found in converted parking lots or cheap rented offices. These have come under increasing scrutiny from Manila authorities, who say many are fronts for scam centres and other crimes.
In March, over 800 Filipinos, Chinese, and other nationals were rescued in a police raid on an online romance scam centre posing as the best online casino north of the capital, according to the official Philippine News Agency.
Last month CNN reported that the Chinese embassy in Manila had urged the Philippines to ban POGOs “to eliminate this social ill.” Five offshore gambling centres were subsequently shut down and nearly 1,000 Chinese citizens were repatriated over the past year.
In March, China’s embassy in Singapore warned its citizens to avoid all forms of betting, reiterating that gambling overseas violates Chinese laws.
“Even if overseas casinos are legally opened, cross-border gambling by Chinese citizens is suspected of violating the laws of our country,” the embassy was quoted as saying.
Impact of Philippines’ move on gambling
This significant move by the Philippines underscores a commitment to promote responsible gambling and mitigate the adverse impacts of illegal operations.
It aligns with global efforts to regulate and uphold the integrity of the best online casinos and reputable minimum bet sportsbooks, among others.
The impact of the decision has not yet been felt but with time, the country would be able to determine its impact on gamblers and citizens at large.
SA’s main opposition announces new bill to regulate online gambling
The Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa’s opposition party, has announced a new bill aimed at regulating the online gambling industry. The timing of the bill is questionable, given that the news comes on the eve of the country’s national general election, set to take place on May 29, 2024. It’s a time when all political parties are seeking positive media coverage to attract more votes. So, is this bill an electioneering ploy? That’s the question most people are asking.
In South Africa, online gambling is legal and those of legal age can sign up at licensed South African online casinos and sportsbooks. Currently, the country has a gambling board, which has been operational for some 16 years.
The South African online gambling industry has been a hot topic over the last few days as the DA put forward a Remote Gambling Bill to regulate online gambling. This proposed new bill aims to transform the current legislature and calls for some radical changes which will enhance the industry.
Our article will unpack this new bill, discuss some of the key proposed changes, and provide some insight into the current framework in the country while also questioning the timing of this new bill.
What does the new Bill say
The new bill was issued by DA Shadow Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Dean Macpherson.
The Bill aims to regulate the issuing of operating licenses to be controlled by the relevant provincial authorities, not the centralised national gambling board. The party wants procedures in place to deal with objections from issuing of licenses; the regulation of advertising related to interactive/ online gambling entities; and the protection of minors and vulnerable persons. It also wants to ensure compliance with FICA.’
A copy of the DA’s announcement is on its website, but we have included key snippets below.
‘’The Democratic Alliance (DA), today, officially had its Remote Gambling Bill, 2024, introduced in Parliament after more than two years of drafting and consultations with industry experts. This initiative comes in response to the significant oversight by the ANC in failing to provide adequate protection and regulation within the online gambling industry.’’
‘’By not regulating this gambling activity, the erosion of the rule of law and criminal activity is being encouraged, while the public is not effectively protected as they are when using land-based gaming operations. At the same time, a lack of regulation is resulting in revenue worth billions of Rands and jobs being lost to other gambling jurisdictions.’’
SA already has gambling measures in place
The country’s government already has in-depth measures in place for the online casino industry to ensure the safety of casino players and the integrity of the industry. The first documented legislature was the National Gambling Act of 2004, which provided a framework for the industry while establishing the National Gambling Board (NGB).
The NGB regulates the gambling industry, including online gambling. The NGB is the highest authority in the industry and works with provincial gambling regulators to ensure all players are treated fairly.
The Role of the NGB:
- Ensuring uniformity, harmonization and integrity of the South African gambling industry.
- To promote responsible gambling.
- Monitor the socio-economic consequences of regulating gambling.
- Research to better understand the size and shape of the industry.
- Continue its work with the Gaming Regulators Africa Forum (GRAF).
Licensing is an integral part of the online gambling industry, and the NGB works in partnership with provincial gambling regulators to ensure all the top-rated South African online casinos and sportsbooks are licensed to operate in the country. Below is a list of the provincial gambling regulators in South Africa:
- Eastern Cape Gambling and Betting Board
- Free State Gambling and Liquor Authority
- Gauteng Gambling Board
- KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board
- Limpopo Gambling Board
- Mpumalanga Economic Regulator
- North West Gambling Board
- Northern Cape Gambling Board
- Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board
The NGB has a stringent protocol for issuing new licenses to operators, and a thorough vetting process is undertaken before any licenses are issued. Gambling licenses can only be applied for through a provincial regulator in a province where the operator will reside. The gambling laws in the country prohibit operators from getting a license as an online casino, so most betting operators work around this by getting a bookmaker license, which allows them to provide South African players with sports betting and online casino products. Each provincial regulator has their own application procedure and fees for gambling licenses, and you can get more information on this by visiting the website of one of the nine provincial regulators in South Africa.
South Africa has witnessed a remarkable rise in online advertising of gambling operators, and today, you will find TV adverts, social media adverts and a plethora of billboards running online casino and sports betting adverts from many online casinos ZA and the best online casinos South Africa has to offer its citizens.
This timing of the Bill
The NGB and all provincial gambling regulators have gone to great lengths to ensure that FICA compliance is a priority and that no registered player from any licensed operator in Mzansi can withdraw funds without providing their FICA documentation.
‘’As mentioned, the Bill has taken over two years of work to bring to fruition and finds the perfect balance between protection, regulation, and administration. With the upcoming 29 May national and provincial elections, the ANC looks set to drop far below the 50% majority mark, which means that in the new Parliament, it will no longer have its majority to reject legislation on frivolous grounds only out of spite because it came from an opposition party. It is Bills like the Remote Gambling Bill which are vital to protect the most vulnerable people and with the ANC below 50%, the DA can ensure that this will be the first of many Bills introduced to rescue South Africa,’ the DA said in its announcement.
The DA statement concluded with the above snippet, and that brings into question the timing of this Remote Gambling Bill. The bill was introduced in Parliament just 3 weeks before the election when many political parties were campaigning and carrying out last-minute PR.
Irrespective of the controversial timing, some of the proposed reforms have merit, especially those surrounding regulating advertising and the protection of minors and vulnerable persons. The online gambling industry in South Africa is a profitable sector, and the NGB has done well in ensuring all operators’ fairness, safety, and transparency.
However, there have been some shortcomings, and if this new Remote Gambling Bill can integrate some aspects of the current framework while introducing some new ones, such as better regulation of advertising, we are sure that the online gambling industry will continue to thrive in South Africa and continue its upward trajectory.
The 2024 List of Top Tier Signup Bonuses in South Africa
Looking for top-tier bonuses in South Africa? We’ve got you covered in this ultimate guide featuring some of the most epic signup bonuses available in Mzansi in 2024! Some of these insane bonuses and there just to attract new players, but we wouldn’t be 100% South African if we didn’t jump on these discounts, like now. So, we’ve put together a list of the top-tier ones that you simply cannot miss.
To keep you in the loop about regulatory stuff, not only are South African casinos known for their exciting game libraries but for their stringent regulatory standards. Regulation is overseen by local gambling authorities, such as the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, which were established to ensure fair play and the protection of players. These authorities issue licenses to South African online casinos, allowing them to operate legally.
These regulatory heavyweights set the highest standards possible for fairness. They want to ensure that igamers can enjoy a safe gaming experience. Every legit South African online casino prominently displays its regulatory body logos on its sites, signalling its compliance with local laws and its commitment to providing a fair and trustworthy gaming environment.
Ready to explore the best signup bonuses in South Africa? Let’s get into it!
What is a Sign-Up Bonus
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Jackpot City is the most popular signup bonus in South Africa
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By Vinolin Naidoo
Politicians move on banning slot machines at US military bases
By Ramona Depares
Soldiers, sailors and marines in America may find themselves turning more towards US online casinos, if Congressman Paul Tonko has his way. Military.com has reported that the congressman is proposing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would see slot machines banned from operating on military bases. And this has nothing to do with responsible gambling practices.
Although the Pentagon is unlikely to view this amendment with favour, given that it’s an excellent source of revenue that it claims helps fund other activities, the topic has long been a bone of contention.
Safe gambling agencies have been among the most vociferous ones in favour of the ban, claiming that the presence of slot machines contributes to gambling addiction.
Still, Tonko’s proposal is expected to be an uphill battle. His amendment is one of more than 1,300 other proposed changes that have been filed. Amendments to the NDAA are debated annually by the House as part of a must-pass bill. But, with so many proposals it is likely that only a few 100 will actually be voted on, and that their proponents will be pushing for a vote.
It is the House Rules Committee that decides which amendments are actually put up for vote, and there are no indications as yet whether the slot machines ban will be one of them. The committee is made up of 13 members, with a 9 to 4 majority advantage for the Republicans.
Tonko, on the other hand, is a member of the Democratic Party who has built a reputation as a progressive. Although his proposal can be considered relevant, the odds that it passes to a vote aren’t in his favour given the Republican advantage.
Congressman previously tried to ban online sports advertising
This is not the first time Congressman Tonko has tried to introduce more restrictive legislation related to retail and online casinos US. Earlier this year, ESPN reported how the congressman was proposing to severely limit advertising activities by online sportsbooks operating in the US, calling the online gambling structure “a Wild West, largely unregulated environment”.
His proposals, dubbed the SAFE Bet Act, called for a ban on sportsbook advertising during live sporting events, besides controlling the language used in advertising and the removal of words like ‘bonus’ and ‘no sweat bets’. The proposal also called for a complete credit card ban at all sportsbooks, and a cap of five deposits within a 24-hour period from any single customer. This included minimum bet sportsbooks US.
The SAFE Bet Act also targeted the use of artificial intelligence, prohibiting the use of AI to track a player’s responsible gambling habits or to create customer-specific prop bets.
And, back in February 2023, Tonko had also proposed the Betting on Our Futures Act, which was specifically focused on the advertising of sports betting. This was based on the Public Health Cigarette Smoking Act, which banned tobacco advertisements.
Calling sportsbook advertising tactics “predatory” and intended “to hook and retain a new generation of consumers”, he told ESPN:
“Just as in the tobacco industry when it was determined that that industry was posing a public health situation, we have now displaced Joe Camel with celebrity spokespeople and, yes, free product.”
Background on military base slot machines in the US
The US military has a complicated relationship with slot machines on their bases. All slot machines had been banned from bases across America back in the 1950s. Some 20 years later, the move was extended to foreign soil.
However, fast-forward to the 1980s and suddenly slot machines were allowed to make a comeback. The legal reasoning behind the relaxation of the ban was that offering entertainment options on the military base itself, would stop troops from getting into trouble off base due to lack of entertainment.
However, nowadays there’s also a revenue angle that needs to be considered. The Pentagon insists that slot machines fund many military amenities, including entertainment and recreational facilities for the troops.
In 2018, another potential ban was in the works, with Congress questioning whether those who are serving but suffer from gambling problems, could be a threat to national security. However, no legislation was ever passed.
The Guardian reports that, currently, the US military operates more than 3,000 slot machines on bases in 12 countries. In 1999, the figure was 8,000 machines in 94 countries, so we’re definitely seeing a downward trend. However, troops as young as 18 years of age do have access to other games of chance sponsored by the military.
Despite the decrease in number, the slot machines contribute significant revenue in excess of $100m annually. The funds are used for groups “supporting morale, welfare and recreation” facilities on all bases, such as golf courses and movie theatres.
According to the Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centre, problems do exist. An analysis of patients conducted in 2003 found that 64% of those who survived a suicide attempt blamed gambling-related harms for pushing them over the edge.
And, in 2016, a survey among Iraq war veterans revealed that 4.2% had become at-risk gamblers after joining the military. Moreover, the National Council on Problem Gambling reports that there are an estimated 56,000 active duty service members who may meet the criteria for gambling disorder.
To put things in perspective, this generally affects around 1% of Americans.
The link between US military service and gambling has been made even within educational and research facilities. In 2021, Rutgers University conducted a study of gambling in the military, where researcher Mark van der Maas found that active and retired military service members were more than twice as likely to become problem gamblers than other members of the population.
The Department of Defense appears to have understood the problem and, since 2019 runs obligatory annual screenings for gambling disorder. These are held as part of service members’ general health assessment, but random spot surveys on active-duty soldiers are also held regularly.
Moreover, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administers a program in Ohio, for all military personnel with problem gambling.
Would Banning Slot Machines At Military Basis Solve The Issue?
Although Congressman Tonko’s bill may not even make it to a vote, what would be the result if it were to be made law? And would it be limited to slot machines on domestic soil, or would it also include foreign bases?
This depends a lot on the results of the debating process and the version of the amendment that would pass for enactment. However, many argue that – even if all slots were to be banned from all bases – this would hardly address the issue given the prevalence of online casinos US.
It would make more sense to focus on educational and preventative measures and to ensure a holistic approach to the mental health of those in military service. Given the sound reasoning behind this approach, it will undoubtedly have a lot of weight when it comes to debating in the House.
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.