ACMA fines Dabble AU$1m over BetStop self-exclusion breaches
The wagering operator failed to close 157 accounts linked to BetStop and sent hundreds of electronic messages to self-excluded customers.
Australia.- The communications regulator, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), has fined Dabble Sports A$1.069m (US$762,458) for breaching rules related to the national self-exclusion scheme BetStop. It said Dabble failed to close 157 wagering accounts after the account holders registered with BetStop.
The operator also sent 165 self-excluded customers 839 electronic messages by SMS, email and app push notifications, despite rules requiring wagering providers to stop electronic marketing to BetStop participants. The ACMA found a further breach involving 45 customers who received more than 2,000 push notifications that did not include information about BetStop, as required under Australia’s online gambling self-exclusion rules.
Alongside the penalty, Dabble has entered into a two-year court-enforceable undertaking with the ACMA. The operator must arrange an independent review of its compliance systems and fund the implementation of any recommended improvements. The regulator can take legal action against Dabble if the operator breaches the undertaking’s terms.
The ACMA said BetStop will face stronger regulatory requirements from January 1, 2027, including higher penalties for violations of its self-exclusion rules.
