Ukraine blocks more illegal sites as self-exclusion register surges 139% – Regulation
In a significant development for the Ukrainian gambling landscape, the nation’s gambling commission blocked 11 additional unlicensed casino websites last week, coinciding with a staggering 139% increase in registrations to the national self-exclusion register during the first half of 2024.
This data was disclosed at a Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL) meeting held on July 10, revealing that the number of self-excluded players had surged from 4,289 at the end of 2023 to 7,874 as of July 1. Notably, men constituted 87% of these new registrations, while an additional 41 individuals were added through applications submitted by relatives, emphasizing the social responsibility aspect of the sector.
Ukraine Takes Firm Stand Against Illegal Gambling Sites
The recent actions by Ukraine’s gambling commission underscore the detrimental impact of unregulated gambling in the region. Within three days of issuing its order, KRAIL successfully mandated that 11 illegal online casino sites be blocked by the software providers hosting these platforms.
This directive required electronic communication service providers to leverage their Domain Name System (DNS) servers to restrict access to the flagged websites. The sites identified for blocking included:
- 888starz.bet
- Cosmobet.one
- Astekbet.com
- Vulkan-777.biz
- F1casino.club
- Bettwo.fun
- Stake.ceo
- Roobet.com
- Casino-joker-20.com
- Clubsvulkanbets.store
- Chipstars.bet
According to KRAIL, these brands were operating illegally, representing a “gross violation of the current legislation governing gambling activities.” The commission expressly instructed that “owners of these sites must close access to them within three working days.”
Additionally, notable website hosting providers, including Cloudflare Inc. and Melbikomas UAB, were specifically mentioned as operators of the illegal Cosmobet and Astekbet websites.
In June alone, KRAIL took action to block up to 371 websites engaged in illegal gambling within Ukraine. Between April and May, over 1,000 orders were issued to restrict access to both domain names and subdomains on DNS servers, facilitated through collaboration between KRAIL and Ukraine’s Security Service.
KRAIL Functions Amidst Legislative Changes
Despite Ukraine’s parliament voting in April to dissolve the commission in a move aimed at highlighting the adverse effects of the gambling industry on the Ukrainian army and society, KRAIL continues to operate effectively. This persistence signifies an ongoing commitment to regulating the gambling sector while addressing public concerns related to gambling addiction and illegal operations.
This recent surge in self-exclusion sign-ups and the proactive measures taken against unlicensed operators reflect a significant shift in Ukraine’s approach to gambling regulation. It illustrates a growing recognition of the importance of safeguarding the interests of players and society at large while combatting illegal gambling activities.
As the gambling landscape in Ukraine evolves, stakeholders within this sector must remain vigilant, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting responsible gaming practices to foster a healthier gaming environment.
