The French gambling commission has strengthened its stance on unlicensed operators
In the drive to protect French citizens, l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has gone beyond their usual regulatory measures and implemented strict new guidelines for unlicensed operators. This is a significant step forward in preventing illegal approaches towards consumers of gambling activities within France.
Who’s on the blacklist?
The French gambling landscape is populated by a diverse range of players – 17 independent operators, plus the government-run FDH lottery. With so many competitors vying for customers’ attention, it’s sure to be an interesting journey through France’s online gaming market!
Last March, the French Government bestowed ANJ with authority to authorise delisting of unlicensed operators and affiliates in a bid to tackle burgeoning illegal gambling. Thusforth, a blacklist was declared by ANJ containing blocked websites for these entities – enforcing restrictions which are able to provide patrons playing within France’s borders an increased level of safety when participating in wagering activities. Following judicial approval from June 2022 onwards, it has become obligatory for ISPs based on this nation’s soil blocking access towards such sites and any corresponding promoters operating illegally herein.
These operators have been blacklisted.
- Campeonbet
- Casinoextra
- Dublinbet
- Kahuna Casino
- Winmachance,
- MyStake
- WinUnique
- VegasPlus
- YBet
To this day, we have imposed successful orders to block 152 illicit gambling websites and 532 corresponding URLs. If any organization or individual promoting unlawful services is reported to us, then effective action will be taken within 1-2 months’ time; leading up to the complete exclusion of such sites.
ANJ is launching a nation-wide effort to raise awareness of the serious risks posed by illegal gambling websites. Through its educational campaign, it highlights potential situations such as personal data theft and fraudulent payments, plus unsatisfactory practices from some operators that may not honor winnings.
The ANJ warned that should failure to follow these directives result in disharmony between parties, there can be no legal intervening from the authority’s end.