Sportsbet reported to police over click-to-call service
Australian gambling operator Sportsbet has defended its in-play betting app after it was referred to the police by the country’s communications regulator.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) received a complaint about the Paddy Power Betfair-owned operator’s Bet Live telephone service that allows punters to place bets during a live sporting event.
After determining that the click-to-call service could constitute prohibited internet gambling content under the Interactive Gambling Act, the ACMA referred the matter to the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
The AFP, which decided not to press charges following a similar complaint against William Hill last year, confirmed the matter had been referred by the ACMA and a spokesperson said it was “evaluating the matter”.
Adrian Ryan, Sportsbet’s general counsel, told the Australian newspaper that the firm was aware of the ACMA’s action.
“While Australian bookmakers’ live betting products differ, having taken eminent QC advice, Sportsbet maintains that as Bet Live is only available on mobile telephone devices and conducted via a voice call, it is wholly compliant with the Act,” said Ryan.
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