Ukraine Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling Websites with New Regulator PlayCity
Ukraine’s New Gamble on Regulating Online Casinos
Ukraine has taken decisive action against illegal online gambling by targeting thousands of unauthorized casinos. Spearheading this effort is PlayCity, the country’s newly established regulatory authority, committed to curbing the influence of unlicensed operators across the nation.
Transition to a Transparent Regulatory Body
PlayCity stepped in to replace the former regulator KRAIL, which had been plagued by corruption allegations and suspect connections to Russia. Demonstrating a fresh start, PlayCity has acted swiftly and decisively to establish robust oversight of the gambling sector from the outset.
Extensive Crackdown on Unauthorized Gambling Sites
PlayCity has successfully shut down approximately 2,500 online casino websites that were operating illegally and generating millions in revenue without official licensing. In parallel, the regulator has collected over $33 million through legitimate licensing fees, marking a significant step toward formalizing the industry.
Collaborative Efforts to Combat Illegal Gambling Advertising
Working closely with social media platforms, PlayCity has emphasized the urgent removal of illegal gambling promotions. It has also imposed fines totaling $1.2 million on various offenders, targeting both companies and individuals who facilitate the promotion of unauthorized gambling activities.
Effective Methods for Regulating the Gambling Industry
PlayCity’s proactive strategies have earned praise for effectively managing the gambling landscape and enforcing necessary compliance measures. Despite the challenge posed by thousands of domains suspected of illegal activity, the regulator’s current practices are considered highly efficient in maintaining control over illegal gambling operations in Ukraine.
Building Partnerships to Identify and Shut Down Illegal Sites
Earlier this year, PlayCity called on the technology sector to collaborate in developing a cross-industry tool dedicated to identifying and blocking illegal gambling websites. This initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to quickly detect and eliminate unauthorized operators within its digital environment.
Focus on Influencers and Online Promotion
In a recent move, PlayCity has also concentrated efforts on tackling the involvement of internet influencers in promoting unlicensed casinos. This crackdown aligns with a global trend where illegal gambling entities utilize popular online personalities to advertise to local audiences, undermining regulatory controls.
