Russian Central Bank Cracks Down on Gambling Transactions

This story was published more than 3 years ago.

Russia's central bank is taking new measures to crack down on internet casinos operating the country, restricting access for customers to use several payment processors.

The central bank has closed off cross-border transactions for services like Qiwi and Yoo Money, while processors like Fintekh and Onego have had their business licenses canceled in the country. Right now it appears that the only reliable way to deposit and withdraw funds from casinos if you're Russian is Bitcoin. This is being adopted by more Russia-facing casinos, who're keen on trying to still be able to take payments from customers.

Without a doubt, Russia is looking to crack down on illegal betting in the market, which is valued about $20 billion annually. The country only has a few areas where gambling is legal, and that doesn't apply to online betting. While it may make sense for lawmakers to try to legalize and regulate the activity to raise some tax funds, the conservative government in place doesn't seem likely to make the activity available to the populace.

About the author

Therese Williams // UK Correspondent
Therese Williams
Therese is a fervent fan of slot machines and pub fruities, often trying her luck at some of the top online casinos. She covers news for Casino Listings with a focus on the UK and Europe. Therese studied arts and creative writing at university and has written for newspapers in the UK.
1 reply • Last post

Comments

bgsharpe
Forum AngelForum Angel
sharpe's picture
Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
Joined: 4 Nov 2014
Posts: 7646
Thanks given: 4239
Thanks received: 1165
29 January 2021 - 1:11pm
#1
Jackpothunter wrote:

While it may make sense for lawmakers to try to legalize and regulate the activity to raise some tax funds, the conservative government in place doesn't seem likely to make the activity available to the populace.

So that's the problem inst it...I mean the local government should looking for a ways to legalize and take advantage of that multi billion activity instead of trying to deny players access to the casinos...cause I don't think they doing that from a moral stand point to be honest.