The NSW Office of Responsible Gambling has urged people not to gamble using overseas gambling sites such as casino games and slot machines.

Director of ORG Natalie Wright said that with many sports suspended, and pubs, clubs and casinos temporarily closed, there is a risk that more people will turn to these sites that are not regulated.

“Overseas gambling websites are illegal in Australia, and people who use them face additional risks than when they gamble with a licensed Australian operator,” Ms Wright said.

“Some of these sites look legitimate, and they even look like they are Australian by using images such as the Australian flag and native animals.”

As these companies are located offshore, players are at a high risk of not seeing their money again.

“These sites are illegal under the Commonwealth Interactive Gambling Act 2001, and because they’re not regulated, there are no safeguards to protect people,” Ms Wright added.

Under the legislation, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has the power to ask internet service providers to block overseas gambling sites operating illegally in Australia.

“For people that do want to gamble online, you should only use services licensed in Australia, as there are consumer safeguards in place and responsible gambling options, such as the ability to set time and expenditure limits,” Ms Wright said.