It’s no secret that the Government of Singapore isn’t the biggest fan of gambling. While most nations are a little lax when it comes to online betting, Singapore isn’t one of them. In fact, over 120 people were arrested in 2016 for illegal online gambling. The Remote Gambling Act was passed in February of 2014. This enabled the Singaporean Government to doubled down on illegal gambling. Hundreds of online gambling platforms were blocked, and several arrests were made. But the law doesn’t wholly outlaw gambling. Sometimes, one wrong move can get you into some dangerous hot water. Taking that into consideration, let’s explore the rules and restrictions about online gambling in Singapore. This so that you can enjoy this betting season without stressing about any legal consequences.
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Remote Gambling Act, 2014
Online gambling in Singapore was banned in 2014, under the Remote Gambling Act. In short, it is the primary legislation concerned with any form of remote gambling – gambling that takes place over the internet, the radio, telephones, or any other electronic device you can communicate with. Necessarily, the Act outlaws all forms of gambling. Unless it is with an accepted organization–one that has been approved of by the Government. Currently, only two establishments have the option of gambling – Singapore Pools and Singapore Turf Club. They have official certificates of exemption.
If you break this law, you could end up for 6 months behind bars or a $5000 fine. So, if you want to gamble with any other platform other than these two, you better make sure that your profits are worth it. But if it were up to us, we’d stay clear of any other bookmaker. A single bet, no matter how big the potential profits, isn’t worth getting into trouble with the law over.
Legal Online Gambling In Singapore
Now coming to the two exempt organizations – Singapore Pools and Singapore Turf Club – the only two organizations you can legally bet with. If you were looking for an experience that would emulate the bright photoluminescent aura of Las Vegas, you might be disappointed. Both establishments have limited betting options. Punters can only bet on horse races, football, and lottery games like Toto, 4D and Singapore Sweep. There aren’t any options for online poker, blackjack, roulette, or any such live casino games. You would also have to be over 21 years to open an account with either of the two operators.
The Status of Betting Going Ahead
Officials said that this move was made to prevent gambling underground. Perhaps the goal was to establish a balance – giving the people what they want. That is, the ability to make wagers on some of the country’s most popular betting options without overindulging them. It is likely, however, that more operators may be granted exemption certificates shortly. But the courts haven’t hesitated to dish out harsher punishments to those breaking laws. For now, it’s best to just stick to the legal methods.
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