These measures, effective as of 31 December 2024, are part of a broader effort to curb illegal online gambling targeting the local population.
Speaking on the issue, Shanmugam acknowledged that while blocking measures have helped reduce access to illegal gambling platforms, the approach is not entirely foolproof.
“Illegal operators can easily create new websites, and we do not have the ability to know of every gambling website,” he said.
To address this, the public is encouraged to report illegal gambling sites, mobile apps, advertisements, and bank accounts linked to illegal operators directly to the police.
Responding to a suggestion regarding family interventions, Shanmugam clarified that there are currently no plans to allow families to request the blocking of bank accounts used by players with a gambling disorder.
He noted that existing measures are deemed sufficient, given that the rate of pathological and problem gambling remains low and stable at about 1%.
Meanwhile, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Singapore (GRA) announced that, as of 1 January, the Singapore police force has taken over the responsibility of blocking illegal gambling websites.
The GRA shared the update through a Facebook post, expressing gratitude to the public for its ongoing efforts in helping reduce the harm caused by illegal gambling platforms.
https://next.io/news/regulation/singapore-blocks-over-3800-illegal-gambling-websites/