Romanian Regulator Shutters Two Illegal Sites

Regulators in Eastern Europe are focusing on rooting out illegal gambling websites, but progress has been slow, requiring diligence and a meticulous approach Image Source: Shutterstock.com

The Romanian gambling regulator, ONJN, has issued a blocking order against two undisclosed websites, the latest enforcement move by the regulator and an attempt to keep the offshore sector at bay.

ONJN Goes After Two Illegal Sites, Does Not Share Names

The ONJN has ngaken steps further in its latest enforcement action, filing a criminal complaint against the operators it sought to block, and similarly seeks to hold their beneficiaries responsiblefor the illegal advertising of their products.

In a translated statement, the ONJN said: “The Office constantly monitors every movement and compliance by payment processors, software providers, and other service providers involved in the gambling industry. Thus, those who support illegal operators will commit a crime and will no longer be able to operate on the Romanian market.”

This comes on the heels of another announcement by the regulator in which it said that it would not tolerate local collaborationwith websites that it deems to be illegal.

Influencers will be held responsible for their actions, ONJN warned, and said that it would be investigating any part they may play in the provision of illegal gambling servicesand assistance to those services, i.e., through promotional links, for example.

Similar moves have already been made against influencers in other jurisdictions, Sweden for example. Overall, the ONJN has blocked 93 websitesover the past five months, with the regulator working to identify other offenders.