Illegal Crypto Casino Promos on Instagram put Influencers on Notice

Regulators in Australia are sharpening their message to social media creators. They say that promoting offshore online casinos can breach the law. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has again highlighted multi-million-dollar penalties for influencers who share links or otherwise facilitate access to illegal gambling services. The warning has resurfaced after a new report said Instagram posts promoting an offshore crypto casino stayed live despite numerous complaints.

Instagram moderation is now part of the gambling enforcement story

A 4 February 2026 report by The Guardian described an Australian influencer promoting an offshore crypto gambling platform on Instagram.

The article said concerned users reported about 10 posts, but Meta largely declined to remove the content, stating it did not breach its rules. It also reported that Instagram does not offer a gambling-specific reporting option, and that some content was restricted rather than taken down.

What the regulator says influencers risk when promoting offshore casinos

Australian Communications and Media Authority says it is illegal to provide online casino games to Australians, and it warns that influencers can break the law if they profit from promoting illegal gambling services.

The regulator’s guidance also draws a line between general promotion and facilitating access. ACMA says the highest penalties can apply when someone makes it easier to reach an illegal service, including by providing hyperlinks.

ACMA says

Civil penalties can reach A$2.475 million for facilitating access to illegal online gambling services, while individuals who promote illegal gambling can face penalties up to A$59,400.

Website blocking is still a core enforcement tool

Alongside the influencer warnings, ACMA continues to use ISP blocking against illegal offshore gambling services. In its October to December 2025 enforcement update, it reported blocking 133 websites, including alternate sites created to evade blocks.

ACMA also publishes rolling updates when additional illegal gambling websites are added to the block list.

Practical steps before you follow an offshore casino link

If you see a crypto casino promotion on social media, pause before engaging. Look for clear licensing information that matches your location, and check whether the operator appears on regulator warning or blocking pages. Avoid promos that push urgency or gloss over terms and conditions.

If the post makes it hard to find withdrawal information, support details, or responsible gambling tools, consider that a red flag.