Updates of legislation in the field of crypto-gambling

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Introduction

Cryptocurrency casinos in Australia and other countries continue to grow rapidly, which inevitably attracts interest from regulators. Changes in legislation in the field of crypto gambling are aimed at increasing transparency, protecting players and controlling financial transactions. For players, this means new rules for verification and tax reporting, and for operators, the need to comply with international standards.

1. Reasons for changes in legislation

The growing popularity of crypto casinos: more and more players choose bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Financial security: the need to prevent money laundering and financing illegal transactions.
Player protection: Controlling RTP, game integrity and age restrictions.
Integration of cryptocurrencies into the economy: states seek to legalize and tax crypto gambling.

2. Australia: Focus on regulation

In Australia, online gambling is regulated by the Interactive Gambling Act (IGA) and has been amended in recent years:
  • Tightening KYC and AML procedures - operators are required to verify the identity of players, especially when withdrawing large amounts to BTC.
  • Focus on offshore platforms - Increasing pressure on foreign unlicensed sites for Australian players.
  • Taxation of winnings - the introduction of uniform rules for declaring income from crypto games is being discussed.

3. International trends in crypto-gambling regulation

3. 1. European Union

The EU is moving towards creating uniform rules for crypto casinos.
The main emphasis is on the requirements of AML (Anti-Money Laundering).
Operators are required to implement clear customer identification procedures.

3. 2. USA

Different states have their own rules.
Crypto gambling is still prohibited in most jurisdictions, but some states are considering pilot projects.

3. 3. Asia

Countries like Japan and South Korea have legalized cryptocurrencies, but gambling remains under strict control.
Players have to look for offshore licensed sites.

3. 4. Offshore licences

Curacao and Malta are adapting the laws by adding sections on cryptocurrencies.
Operators are now required to have transparent reserves and provide liquidity reports.

4. Impact on players

KYC on big wins: Anonymity diminishes, especially on takeaways of tens of thousands of dollars.
Controlling RTP and game integrity: Regulators require mandatory audits.
Age and playing time restrictions: Introducing responsible gambling is becoming standard.
Winnings taxes: Players need to consider possible tax liabilities in their home country.

5. Impact on operators

Increase in compliance costs: implementation of AML systems, licensing, IT security.
Risk of blocking without a license: illegal sites may be subject to sanctions.
Improving player confidence: Licensed casinos gain a competitive edge.

6. What to expect in the future

Tightening rules on KYC and transparency of operations.
Growing number of countries legalizing crypto gambling.
Development of Provably Fair standards and mandatory independent certification of games.
Convergence of traditional online gambling and crypto casinos into a single legal system.

Conclusion

Updates to crypto gambling legislation create a balance between security and innovation. For players in Australia, the key trend remains the transition to licensed platforms with transparent KYC procedures, and for operators, the need for constant compliance with new international standards. Playing in licensed BTC casinos is becoming not only safer, but also more predictable in the legal field.