CS:GO Roll, a popular platform for trading and gambling CS:GO skins, has been prohibited from operating in Australia due to its violation of Australian gambling laws. On May 17, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), a branch of the Australian Government, took action against the illegal “skins” gambling site, CS:GO Roll. This move comes as part of the ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal online gambling activities.
The Breach of Australian Gambling Laws
The ACMA issued a warning to Feral Holdings Ltd., the operator of CS:GO Roll, and as a result, the site has been withdrawn from Australia. The authority, responsible for regulating communications and media services in the country, conducted an investigation which revealed that CS:GO Roll was providing casino-style online games. According to the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, playing such games for money or any other valuable item is considered illegal in Australia.
CS:GO Roll allowed users to deposit CS:GO skins, obtained from the popular video game Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, in exchange for in-game coins. These coins could then be used for gambling on various casino-style games offered on the platform. Winnings from CS:GO Roll were paid out in the form of skins, which users could convert into real money using third-party platforms.
Concerns About Skins Gambling Services
ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin expressed particular concern regarding skins gambling services, highlighting their potential to attract young individuals and potentially convert gamers into gamblers. The allure of using in-game items to participate in gambling activities can be appealing to a youthful audience, making it essential to address these issues promptly and effectively.
CS:GO Skin Gambling Controversy
While the ban on CS:GO Roll is a significant development, it is not the first instance of controversy surrounding skins gambling. In 2016, Valve, the publisher of Counter-Strike, took action against 23 gambling sites by issuing cease and desist letters for violating the Steam Subscriber Agreement.
Despite these measures, the gambling industry revolving around CS:GO skins continued to thrive. The value of these skins being bought and sold has increased significantly over the years, attracting both legitimate trading and gambling activities.
CS:GO Roll, in particular, faced criticism from another gambling site, CS:GO Empire, which accused it of operating an illegal operation and employing predatory business practices. Such allegations further highlight the need for tighter regulations and enforcement to protect users from potentially exploitative gambling platforms.
Additionally, on May 17, Steam, the popular gaming platform, implemented bans on certain CS:GO traders who had engaged in trading activities with gambling sites. This move signifies a concerted effort to discourage participation in illegal gambling practices within the CS:GO community.
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