Compliance Updates
Isle of Man Government Publishes Terrorist Financing National Risk Assessment
The Isle of Man Government has published its first standalone Terrorist Financing (TF) National Risk Assessment (NRA), which is a significant step in strengthening the Island’s defences against terrorist financing and reinforces its commitment to international standards.
The TF NRA builds upon the findings of the 2015 and 2020 Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing NRAs and provides a focused analysis of the TF risks relevant to the Isle of Man as an international financial centre (IFC). It is a key component of the Island’s broader strategy to meet the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations on anti-money laundering, countering the financing of terrorism and countering the financing of proliferation (AML/CFT/CPF).
The assessment, which began in April 2024, involved contributions from 48 local experts, industry representatives, and international partners including the UK Home Office and the World Bank.
It concludes that the Isle of Man faces a medium-low overall risk of being used as a conduit for terrorist financing, with the highest risk identified in the area of transit TF — the potential for funds to pass through the Island’s financial system en route to other jurisdictions. Whilst it is notable that the overall rating remains the same as the last TF NRA, conducted in 2020, this report provides further assurance of that rating by the use of more detailed data, information and analysis.
The FATF is an inter-governmental body that sets standards and promotes effective measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to the international financial system.
The FATF-style regional body for the Isle of Man is MONEYVAL, the Council of Europe Committee of Experts on the Evaluation of Anti-Money Laundering Measures and the Financing of Terrorism, based in Strasbourg, France.
The Isle of Man’s efforts in combatting financial crime will be subject to an evaluation by MONEYVAL in October next year.
The Island’s main priority is to prevent, detect and disrupt criminal activity on an international scale. If the island cannot demonstrate that it meets the standards expected, the jurisdiction could referred to the “grey-listing” process. This outcome would have a significant negative impact on the economy and damage the international reputation and the ability to do business.
Jane Poole-Wilson MHK, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, said: “This assessment is a vital tool in our ongoing efforts to protect the Isle of Man’s financial system and uphold our international obligations. It reflects the depth of collaboration across government, regulators, and industry, and highlights both our strengths and the areas where we must continue to build capacity and awareness. We are committed to ensuring that the Island remains a secure and responsible jurisdiction.”
The publication of the TF NRA will be supported by outreach to industry to help stakeholders understand and apply the key findings. A separate NRA focused on Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) TF is also in development and will be presented for approval in due course.
The post Isle of Man Government Publishes Terrorist Financing National Risk Assessment appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
The Arizona Department of Gaming (“the Department” or “ADG”) issued cease-and-desist orders to Raffall, a company based in the United Kingdom, and to an Arizona resident using the platform to promote the ‘Phoenix Dream Home Sweepstakes,’ currently advertised online and through a separate website, winthisazhome.com, which is marketing the chance to ‘Win a Luxury $1.3M Arizona Mountainside Home.’
According to the Department’s investigation, the promotion required participants to purchase entries for a prize to be awarded and promised either a home transfer or a cash payout, depending on sales volume. The investigation further determined that the organizers intended to profit from ticket sales. Based on these findings, the Department alleges the activity constitutes an illegal gambling operation under Arizona law.
As part of the enforcement action, Raffall has been directed to remove all gambling-related drawings or giveaways targeting Arizona residents, and the Arizona resident has also been ordered to cease promoting or conducting any unlawful gambling activity.
“Illegal gambling can take many forms and it does not matter if it is labeled a sweepstakes, raffle, giveaway, or drawing,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming. “Unregulated operations put Arizonans at risk because there is no oversight, and therefore no accountability or safeguards in place. The Department will continue to take enforcement action to protect consumers, and we urge the public to learn what is legal before participating in or hosting any gambling activity.”
Why This Operation Is Illegal
Arizona law prohibits gambling unless it is specifically authorized (A.R.S. Title 13, Chapter 33). There is no exception for so-called “sweepstakes.” Raffles may only be conducted by Arizona charitable, tax-exempt organizations (A.R.S. § 13-3302(B) & (C)), and personal profit is prohibited. Only individuals 21 years of age or older may legally participate in gambling in Arizona.
Because this operation is accessible to users under the age of 21, is conducted for personal gain, and is not conducted by a qualified nonprofit, it violates Arizona law. Additional potential felony violations include:
- Promotion of Gambling – A.R.S. § 13-3303
- Illegal Control of an Enterprise – A.R.S. § 13-2312
- Money Laundering – A.R.S. § 13-2317
Furthermore, foreign-based platforms, such as Raffall, do not adhere to Arizona or U.S. gambling laws, leaving consumers without essential protections.
Consumer Protection Advisory
As illegal online gambling activity continues to rise, the Department urges all residents and visitors to be cautious when participating in gaming, whether online or in-person. Regulated gaming provides important consumer protections, ensuring fair play and fair drawings, data security, accountability, and a safer overall experience.
If you purchased entries in this illegal gambling operation:
- Stop participating immediately and do not buy additional entries.
- Contactyourbank or credit card company to dispute the charges or request a chargeback. Your financial institution is the best avenue for seeking a refund.
- Monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions.
- If you suspect identity theft, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
- IdentityTheft.gov (English)
- RobodeIdentidad.gov (Spanish)
Important: The Department cannot assist with refund requests or individual disputes against unlicensed platforms. Consumers must work through their financial institutions to protect themselves and/or retain legal counsel. They may also file complaints with the Arizona Attorney General’s Consumer Information and Complaints Unit at (602) 542-5763 or azag.gov/consumer.
The post Arizona Department of Gaming Issues Cease-and-Desists on “Phoenix Dream Home Sweepstakes” appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
AUSTRAC intelligence sparked an investigation that helped the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) to uncover a NSW police officer who sold more than $1.3 million in family gold bars to fund a gambling addiction.
The officer was found by the LECC to have engaged in serious misconduct after taking 12 gold bars, weighing 50 ounces each that belonged to his uncle and was stored underneath his mother’s house.
He falsified know your customer forms to sell the bullion to 2 dealers, claiming the gold was a birthday gift or inheritance and then he used the proceeds on sports betting apps and later admitted to the false information stating he “needed the money”.
AUSTRAC first raised the alarm by flagging transactions, including significant gold sales to a bullion dealer with reported money laundering links.
Operation Dartmoor was launched and uncovered the full extent of misconduct.
The officer resigned from the NSW Police Force and has been referred to the Department of Public Prosecutions.
AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas said the case highlights the risks facing the bullion sector.
“Gambling harm doesn’t just drain bank accounts, it can drive desperate people into crime,” Mr Thomas said.
“When gambling turns to addiction, people often look for fast money and that can mean stealing, fraud or money laundering.
“Bullion is portable, valuable and attractive to people wanting to use it illegitimately.
“If you trade in bullion, you are part of the front line in stopping its exploitation.
“Your AML/CTF controls are the difference between being a trusted dealer or a weak link for crime.
“Every transaction is a potential red flag – it’s your responsibility to look twice, and if needed, report it.”
The post AUSTRAC Intelligence Helps Crack Gold Laundering Case Linked to Gambling appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to four unlicensed online casinos—Betty Wins, Orbit Spins, Pacific Spins Casino, and Yabby Casino—all operated by Tech Zone Inc., a company registered offshore in the Union of Comoros.
The enforcement action is part of the MGCB’s ongoing commitment to protect Michigan residents from illegal gambling platforms that lack oversight, player safeguards, and responsible gaming protections.
“These offshore operators lure players with flashy ads and promises of big winnings, but in reality, they put consumers at serious financial and personal risk. We will continue to take strong action against unlicensed sites to ensure gambling in Michigan is legal, fair, and secure,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of MGCB.
Under Michigan law, only MGCB-licensed operators are authorized to offer internet gaming and sports betting. Tech Zone’s four brands were found to be illegally targeting Michigan residents, violating the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and sections of the Michigan Penal Code.
“Illegal operators may use familiar branding or social media ads to appear trustworthy. But if the site isn’t licensed by the MGCB, it isn’t safe. We encourage all players to check before they bet,” Williams said.
The post MGCB Orders Four Offshore Online Casinos to Cease Operations in Michigan appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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