Alberta prepares action against unlicensed gambling websites

Alberta intends to undertake measures against online gambling businesses that operate in the province without a license following the transition date of October 13. Alberta opened its regulated online gambling industry to all operators on July 13 after which it allowed a grace period of three months to the operators already working with Alberta customers. This grace period is expected to come to an end on October 13. After the passing of the deadline, Alberta would switch its focus towards those businesses that are involved in online gambling without authorization to do so. According to Service Alberta and Minister of Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally, Alberta has an arsenal of enforcement tools that are to be utilized to stop unregistered businesses from operating in the province. However, the Minister refused to provide detailed information on the enforcement tools that Alberta is going to employ. The government is considering using cease-and-desist letters to the unregistered operators, and the similar action towards the payment processing companies that facilitate financial dealings of these operators. Nally explained that Alberta will also include companies like Google, Apple, and companies working in social media platforms in the list of potential pressure points that can help in the availability of unlicensed gambling applications and related advertising. The number of permitted betting websites in Alberta is expected to go up from about 35 to roughly 60 by the date of October 13. Some operators that used to operate in Alberta have communicated with regulators. They have indicated they do not plan to apply for licensing but opt to leave the province instead. Nally has assured in statements that the regulated market can accommodate as many as 70 operators at some point.