Illegal online gambling operators are again in the sights of Russian authorities as they explore new methods to curb the activity. The government is considering several actions, including blocking websites and applications, as well as restricting cryptocurrency payments for betting transactions.
During a recent Commission meeting, the focus was on reducing the sector’s influence on vulnerable groups, particularly children and minors.
Land-based gaming is largely accepted in Russia, with retail betting shops widespread and casinos permitted in select regions. But online gaming remains tightly controlled. Online casinos are banned, though exceptions exist for online sports betting.
Evgeny Masharov, a member of the Russian Civic Chamber, points out that the issue lies with the unregulated market, easily accessible via mobile devices.
Proposals from the Civic Chamber include fostering better collaboration among key state entities like Roskomnadzor, which can block IPs, Rosfinmonitoring, responsible for AML strategies and the Central Bank, which can restrict cryptocurrency payments.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, international operators have been cautious of the Russian market due to sanctions. The UK’s OFSI, under the AML Act 2018, enforces actions against operators engaging with sanctioned Russian entities.
bet365 exited the Russian market following the invasion, ceasing all operations and regional partnerships. However, for unlicensed sites, the Russian market, with its 143m population, remains lucrative.
