Australian authorities have launched a dedicated taskforce to disrupt fraudulent online gambling platforms after reported losses linked to fake casino sites more than tripled in a year.
The National Anti-Scam Centre, which operates under the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, has established a new “fusion cell” focused on a growing form of fraud known as “scambling.”
These schemes use convincing websites and apps that appear to offer genuine casino games or betting services. Consumers are encouraged to deposit money, but the platforms manipulate results, prevent withdrawals or demand further payments before supposed winnings can be released.
According to Scamwatch data, 806 scambling reports were submitted in 2025, up from 677 during the previous year. Reported losses rose from approximately A$449,000 in 2024 to A$1.6 million in 2025.
Authorities believe the real level of harm is considerably higher because victims may assume they simply lost their money while gambling and therefore fail to recognise or report the fraud.
ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said the fake platforms were designed to look legitimate and could offer small initial payouts to gain a user’s trust. Once the victim begins depositing larger amounts, withdrawals may be blocked and additional payments requested.
The scams are commonly promoted through social media posts and messaging services, using attractive sign-up bonuses, low initial deposits and promises of substantial returns. Victims can then be directed to make a series of relatively small transfers, sometimes across several PayID accounts.
Some platforms also operate referral programmes that reward users for introducing friends, relatives or other members of their community. This allows the scam to spread through existing relationships and gives the fraudulent service another layer of apparent credibility.
The authorities are particularly concerned about the effect on Indigenous communities. Around 45% of the losses reported to Scamwatch in 2025 came from people who identified as First Nations Australians.
The ACCC is investigating whether these communities are being deliberately targeted, including through geographically focused online advertising. Lowe said understanding how the platforms reach First Nations Australians would be an important part of preventing further losses.
The fusion cell will bring together law enforcement, government bodies, gambling regulators, banks, telecommunications providers, digital platforms and frontline community organisations. Participants will examine how the schemes operate, identify the services that enable them and test measures to remove or disrupt fraudulent content.
The initiative will also seek to improve public awareness and create stronger support routes for affected consumers. It is scheduled to operate until December 9, 2026, with a report on its findings due in 2027. It is the fourth fusion cell coordinated by the National Anti-Scam Centre, following previous projects focused on investment, employment and romance scams.
Australian law allows licensed companies to provide online sports and race betting as well as lotteries. However, online casino games, real-money pokies and online in-play sports betting cannot legally be offered to Australian customers.
Consumers have been advised to check the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s register before using an online gambling service. A professional design, positive reviews or an apparently functional app does not prove that a platform is genuine.
The National Anti-Scam Centre also warned that fake casino operators may collect identity documents and personal information for identity theft or money laundering. Anyone who believes they have transferred money to one of these sites should contact their bank immediately and submit a report through Scamwatch.
The taskforce’s launch comes as ACMA continues blocking illegal offshore gambling and affiliate websites under the Interactive Gambling Act. Its enforcement powers also cover businesses and individuals that advertise or help provide prohibited gambling services in Australia. The details of the new initiative were published by the National Anti-Scam Centre, with further reporting highlighting its impact on First Nations communities.