From yesterday onwards, Singapore-based players are not allowed to enter any gambling websites since local regulators blocked the access to them with the aim of controlling the remote gambling activities residents take part in.
Everyone, affected by the enactment of the new law, may check if the website they are using is included in the list of prohibited ones. A representative of the Ministry of Home Affairs ensured that the list with the blocked sites will be updated on regular basis but no further details will be publicly revealed.
Yet, Singaporean officials reassured communities that the entire process related to the websites blocking will go smooth.
However, up to now, a few serious issues posed a setback to the smooth implementation of the new rules.
Recreational players complained that they were not able to withdraw the funds they have previously deposited into their accounts.
Since the new law has come into force, remote gambling activities on the territory of Singapore are strictly prohibited. Anyone who violates the rules and accesses a gambling website, publishes advertisements that encourage residents to place bets via mobile applications and websites that are not maintained by certain operators, will face financial penalties and they may even spend up to six months behind the bars.
Expectedly, Singaporean authorities have taken the respective measures for ensuring the hassle-free implementation of the new rules and informed the financial institutions about the changes.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore ordered all banks and card issuers as well as all operators that maintain online payment systems that all payment transfers made to gambling websites have to be blocked.
Financial institutions are not permitted to accept checks, credit cards or any other form of payment provided that it is related to remote gambling activities.
However, gambling operators are given the chance to apply for exemption and if their request is approved, they will not be held liable for the essence of the gambling options they provide.
Currently, Singapore Turf Club and Singapore Pools are the gambling operators believed to apply and receive authorities’ approval for becoming authorized operators. Now, they provide their customers with the option of placing their bets remotely.
Actually, it was a well-known fact that both operators will take actions towards remaining available on the gambling market. People familiar with the matter even suspected that they have been considering all advantages and disadvantages over the last couple of months. At the beginning of October, 2014, it became clear that Singaporean gambling sector is on the verge of significant reforms.
Representatives of both operators were reached for a comment and they confirmed that a license will be sought and officials are currently reviewing the details concerning the application.
