The National Gambling Board (NGB) has allocated R596,000 to identify illegal gambling websites, with two personnel dedicated to this challenge.
The NGB identified at least 90 online gambling websites operating illegally in South Africa, all registered and licensed overseas. Minister Tau noted that the NGB has not engaged with these illegal operators, which has hindered efforts to block their sites.
This information was shared in response to questions from Rise Mzansi MP Songezo Zibi, who inquired about the NGB’s methods for identifying illegal sites and its collaborations with South African network operators to block them over the past five financial years. Zibi also asked about steps taken to work with Google Africa to remove illegal gambling websites from its search engine.
Identification Process
The National Gambling Board (NGB) relies on third-party information to identify illegal gambling websites. When unlawful winnings are confiscated, the relevant websites are reported on a National Gambling Board form. Additionally, public complaints can lead to identification through a dedicated NGB email address or fraud hotline.
Once the NGB receives information about a gambling website, it verifies whether the operator is registered in South Africa. If the operator is licensed elsewhere, the site is deemed illegal.
Stakeholders Engagement
The NGB collaborates with stakeholders who provide platforms for these websites in South Africa but does not engage directly with the illegal operators. Minister Tau stated that the NGB forwarded ten websites to Google Africa for removal in the financial year ending 2024/25; however, none have been removed to date.
Minister Tau confirmed that the NGB currently lacks a board of directors, a situation that has persisted since September 2014. The process to select new members is underway and will soon be presented to the Cabinet for consideration.
