South Africa Cracks Down on Illegal Online Gambling Sites

South Africa is grappling with a growing number of illegal online gambling platforms, with around 90 sites currently operating without proper authorisation. Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, revealed in a recent parliamentary briefing that many of these websites are licensed offshore and actively target South African players, bypassing local regulations.

The proliferation of these sites not only undermines local gambling laws but also contributes to significant tax revenue losses. Furthermore, users are exposed to a host of risks, including fraud, poor consumer protection, and potential links to illicit financial activity. Despite the jurisdictional hurdles, local authorities are turning to indirect methods to curb their spread.

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NGB Turns to Tech Giants and ISPs

Rather than targeting the operators directly, the National Gambling Board (NGB) has reached out to platforms that enable their operation. This includes a formal request to Google Africa to delist ten specific websites identified during the 2024/25 financial year. So far, no action has been taken by the tech company, according to Minister Tau.

The NGB has also partnered with internet service providers and law enforcement agencies, resulting in the blocking of 20 sites so far in 2024. The Financial Intelligence Centre is currently investigating whether any of these operations are tied to illegal financial transactions, adding a new layer of scrutiny.

However, enforcement remains limited due to capacity issues. The NGB currently employs just two individuals dedicated to identifying and tracking illegal sites across the country.

Funding and Public Cooperation Key to Future Strategy

To strengthen enforcement in the 2025/26 financial year, the NGB has earmarked R596,000 for efforts, including travel and legal coordination meetings. Minister Tau emphasised the importance of public awareness and urged residents to verify a gambling platform’s licensing status on the NGB’s official website.

For players interested in safe, legal options, the list of vetted South African online casinos provides a reliable starting point. These platforms comply with local laws and offer stronger protections for consumers, making them a more secure choice amid ongoing regulatory challenges.