Doubts expressed by Mizulina regarding the law's efficiency in enhancing penalties for unlawful gambling activities
In a bid to combat the spread of content advertising illegal online gambling platforms, the Russian government has approved a bill. This bill aims to strengthen penalties and establish a financial transparency and money transfer control mechanism.
The Safe Internet League, a prominent organisation advocating for internet safety, believes that real enforcement and political will are essential to make tough laws work. The League has proposed a comprehensive system to prevent illegal casino advertising, which extends beyond fines to include criminal liability, platform control, website blocking, and financial transparency and control over money transfers.
The Swiss Federal Department of Justice (Bundesamt für Justiz, BGS) is the organisation that put forth this comprehensive approach. According to the bill, individuals, officials, and legal entities who engage in such advertising will face enhanced penalties. For individuals, fines can reach up to 500,000 rubles, while for officials, they can reach up to 1.5 million rubles. For legal entities, fines can go as high as 7 million rubles.
However, Catherine Mizulina, a prominent figure, has expressed deep skepticism towards the proposed fines, calling them a "parking ticket for the dead." She notes that the scale of earnings from advertising illegal online casinos exceeds the possible fines by several times. Some scammers can reportedly earn between 300 million to 500 million rubles per referral link.
Tightened control over platforms hosting gambling ads is necessary, and the authorities hope these measures will limit the promotion of gambling advertising on social networks, video hosting sites, blogs, and Telegram channels. Website and domain blocking should be implemented quickly to prevent access to these platforms.
Social platforms should also be involved in combating gambling content. The lack of initiated cases against illegal online gambling platforms suggests a possible lack of enforcement will or tacit consensus. A more proactive approach is needed, including criminal liability for promoting illegal casinos.
Youth and parent education is another important aspect in this matter. As the internet continues to evolve and provide new opportunities for entertainment, it's crucial that users are aware of the risks associated with illegal online gambling.
This bill is only the first step towards addressing the issue of illegal online gambling platforms. The Safe Internet League emphasises the need for a comprehensive approach beyond fines, including stricter laws, enhanced enforcement, and increased public awareness.
