ACMA launches a scrutiny on possible illegal practices at JustBet’s end

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) that calls the shots for the regulation of online content in the country launches a scrutiny owing to possible illegal practices at the end of JustBet, the renowned sports betting operator.

The company which offers cryptocurrency and American dollars live betting on Australian sports was registered by someone from Panama, and its IP address was traced by authorities to Costa Rica, the hub of the international bitcoin-gambling industry.

Irrespective of the fact that it was registered by the Christmas Island Domain Administration (CIDA), which is in charge of web addresses ending in .cx in Australia, the sports betting operator was unauthorised by gambling commissions in any states or local territories.

According to Tasmanian independent MP Andrew Wilkie, the website breached the federal Interactive Gambling Act that bans online gambling sites from providing unlicensed interactive gambling services, therefore, he requested to pull the plugs of the portal. CIDA opposed the request as it believed that authorities or a formal complaint from the public is needed in order to deregister JustBet.

ACMA told ABC News that the investigation into JustBet’s operations had begun as the authority had the right to apply to the Federal Court to set penalties and injunctions against those who violate the law.

A spokesperson for ACMA said:“The ACMA has published a register of interactive wagering service providers that are licensed by an Australian state or territory.”