Cryptocurrency Betting and Unlicensed Access Draw Regulator’s Scrutiny
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has formally warned two international operators, Precise IG Solutions B.V., the entity behind CoinPoker, and Dama N.V., operator of Casiny, for violating Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The two brands allegedly offered online gambling services to Australian residents without holding the necessary local licences.
This development reflects the Australian regulator’s growing vigilance in enforcing gambling compliance, particularly in the context of cryptocurrency usage and offshore operators.
CoinPoker: Crypto Betting Faces Legal Boundaries
CoinPoker, a blockchain-based online poker platform, was found to allow Australian players to wager using cryptocurrency—specifically CHP tokens and other digital assets. While crypto may offer anonymity and ease of cross-border transactions, ACMA ruled that it does not exempt operators from licensing obligations under the Interactive Gambling Act.
In fact, any wagering platform, regardless of the currency or technology used, is deemed unlawful if it offers interactive gambling (such as poker, slots, or online casinos) to Australians without an Australian licence.
CoinPoker’s decentralized nature adds complexity to regulatory oversight. However, ACMA’s action shows that even crypto-native platforms can and will be held accountable if they fail to geoblock Australian users or comply with local laws.
Casiny: Repeated Violations Signal Escalation
Casiny, operated by Dama N.V., was found offering casino-style betting services to Australians without the required authorisation. Notably, this is not the first time Dama N.V. has been warned, the operator was previously sanctioned earlier this year, suggesting a pattern of non-compliance.
Dama N.V. is known to run several white-label gambling sites from Curaçao, a jurisdiction with a controversial history of lax enforcement, often providing global access without stringent user restrictions. ACMA’s warning suggests it will not tolerate companies using permissive licensing frameworks to skirt Australian rules.
Enforcement Tools and Global Collaboration
Both CoinPoker and Casiny have been instructed to cease offering their services to Australian players. ACMA may follow up with ISP blocking, one of its most effective tools for disrupting access to illegal gambling sites. In addition, the agency hinted at potential collaboration with international regulators, especially when crypto and cross-border payments are involved.
This latest enforcement is part of ACMA’s wider strategy to crack down on unlicensed online gambling. Since 2019, the authority has blocked over 900 websites and issued numerous formal warnings to operators and affiliates.
Consumer Protection and Market Integrity
ACMA reiterated that its actions are driven by consumer protection. Unlicensed sites often lack responsible gambling tools, dispute resolution mechanisms, or financial safeguards. They expose users to greater risks, including unfair terms, identity theft, and financial loss.
Australia’s interactive gambling framework is one of the strictest in the world. The regulator expects full compliance from all entities targeting Australian users, whether they operate in fiat currency, crypto, or alternative models.
As digital betting evolves, this case reinforces the message that technological innovation does not override regulatory accountability. Operators must prioritise legal compliance to ensure long-term credibility and avoid escalating enforcement.
