Online vultures: Mum's crusade

Illegal off-shore casinos who promote high-stake jackpots, but trap unsuspecting players. Sadly, Thomas was one of them

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

People struggling with gambling addiction can also reach out to Gamblers Anonymous.

Australian Communications and Media Authority statement:

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is acutely aware of the devastating impact that the provision of illegal offshore gambling services can have on Australians. Disrupting illegal offshore gambling is a major focus for the ACMA.

The ACMA has investigated and found the Emu Casino Service to be illegally offering gambling services to Australians.

Despite the challenges of taking enforcement action against an offshore operator, the ACMA is proceeding with the enforcement and disruption options available to us. These include referring those individuals known to be involved to the Department of Home Affairs for placement on the Movement Alert List and notifying overseas regulators (where the service is licensed) of our findings and actions—which may have implications for the licences held in those jurisdictions.