ACMA and ISP Automatic Filters

The Australian Communications and Media Commission (ACMA) is actively working with ISPs to implement blocking of illegal online casinos. One of the key tools is automatic filters that restrict user access to prohibited resources in accordance with the requirements of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA).

1. Principle of operation of automatic filters

ACMA generates and regularly updates a list of domains that violate IGA.
Providers receive instructions on how to implement technical filters (DNS, IP, or URL blocking).
When trying to access a prohibited site, the user sees a page with a blocking notification.

2. Filtering types used by providers

DNS blocking - spoofing the domain IP address to redirect the request to the notification page.
IP blocking - restricting access to specific servers where the prohibited resource is located.
URL filtering - prohibit loading pages with specific addresses, even if the domain is available.

3. Process automation

Updates to the block list occur automatically over secure communication channels between ACMA and providers.
Filtering systems work without user intervention and do not require manual settings.
Domain verification takes place according to algorithms that exclude delays in the application of sanctions.

4. Efficacy and limitations

A high percentage of locks reduces the availability of illegal casinos for ordinary users.
Experienced players can use a VPN or proxy, which remains a problem for complete control.
ACMA regularly updates filtering methods to make bypassing protections more difficult.

5. Legal framework

The right to block sites is enshrined in the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and is supported by decisions of the Federal Court.
ISPs are required to comply with ACMA regulations or face fines and sanctions.

6. Impact on players and operators

Players receive a clear signal about the illegal status of the resource.
Operators on the block list are losing Australian audiences and having to either cease operations or legalise.

Conclusion
Automatic filters of Internet providers, introduced at the initiative of ACMA, are an effective tool in the fight against illegal casinos. They provide operational restrictions on access to prohibited resources, strengthening the gambling control system in Australia.