Consumer groups urge tech-based approach to illegal online gambling

Consumer advocacy groups are urging lawmakers to adopt a "smarter and high-tech" strategy for disabling illegal online gambling operations, rather than implementing a total ban.

Groups like Bantay Konsyumer, Kalsada, Kuryente (BK3) and Konsyumer at Mamamayan (KM) express concern that an outright prohibition could drive these operations underground, making them harder to regulate and more susceptible to abuse.

They advocate for enhanced digital regulations supported by robust governance and control systems.

Atty. Karry Sison, BK3 Convenor, highlighted that banning online gambling is ineffective as illegal sites operating abroad can still spread malware and steal user data.

Sison noted that the government has already blocked numerous illegal gambling sites, but they continue to reappear with new addresses and offshore servers.

She emphasized the need for systems that can track and halt these operators before they become accessible, likening the issue to a cybersecurity problem that requires a technological solution.