Influencers Face Fines for Promoting Illegal Gambling
Social media personalities are under fire for advertising a gambling firm that is not permitted to operate in Australia. The company, disguised as an Australian entity, is actually based in a small island nation off the African coast. The Australian media regulator is now cracking down on these endorsements.
Offshore Gambling Push
Various influencers have been promoting an offshore gambling company. These individuals have encouraged Australians to open accounts with the bookmaker. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued a warning to these influencers.
The ACMA has threatened to fine influencers up to $59,400 for promoting illegal gambling services. The company, called Leon Australia, falsely presents itself as an Australian business. However, it is registered in Belize.
Here’s a recent tweet.
— Sample User (@sampleuser) March 1, 2024
One example involves Julian Woods, who described himself as “Australia’s #1 biological male.” He advertised a $4,500 deposit bonus. The ACMA found that the offshore gambling posed a high risk to Australians. The legal Australian gambling market is worth over $25 billion a year (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2024).
The Company’s Tactics
Leon Australia’s website claims it’s licensed and regulated by authorities in Anjouan, a part of the Comoros archipelago. The company used social media pages featuring images of sports and players. DegenerateAngelss and Steveypants have also been involved in promoting the company.
“The company used influencers to promote gambling.”
— Expert Source
The company is also listed on the official license register of the Anjouan regulator. The regulator has asked internet service providers to block Australians from accessing Leon’s website. This action was taken after an investigation.
