ACMA issues warning over scam gambling emails and texts

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has warned consumers in the country about an increase in scam emails and SMS messages claiming to offer gambling credit and free spins.

Since the start of the year, the ACMA said it has identified over 6,000 emails and messages that have been sent to consumers inviting them to click a link to access bonus offers.

However, the ACMA said the links are being used to spread viruses and malware, and as such, has advised Australians to ignore and delete these messages.

According to the ACMA, the most common sites that the messages claim to come from include Roo Casino, Pokie Spins, Bonza Spins and Syndicate Casino.

“Scammers are trying to obtain personal details, and to spread computer viruses and malware,” said Fiona Cameron, a member of ACMA's management board. “If you receive one of these messages, delete it and do not respond or click on any of the links.

“There’s no such thing as free money. Don’t let yourself be conned into believing you have any credit or bonuses with these casinos – you don’t.

“This is just a phishing expedition to steal your identity or infect your computer with malicious malware. Remember if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.”

The warning comes as the ACMA steps up its own activities to tackle telecommunications scams, including delivering on its Combating Scams Action Plan, making new rules to prevent mobile number fraud and issuing consumer alerts for emerging scam threats.

In January, the ACMA also announced a further nine online casino websites to be blocked by internet service providers in the country as part of an ongoing clampdown on illegal activities.

Roo Casino – one of the sites names in the scam warning – as well as GW Casino, Wager Beat, Joe Fortune, Ignition Casino, Casino Dingo, AU Slots, Top Bet and XBet were deemed as operating in breach of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.