Why Do Online Mines Games Gambling Operators Prohibit VPN Use?
It is blatantly obvious most online casino operators disallow virtual private networks despite the fact using such services is not illegal per se. So why the big fuss? The answer to this question again has to do with gambling regulations.
All licensed gambling companies must pursue strict Know Your Customer (KYC) policies in line with the requirements of their regulators. Each registered player must thus undergo obligatory verification to confirm their age, identity, location, and source of funds.
As cumbersome as this procedure is at times, online casinos must always go through with it to prevent any potential legal and regulatory troubles. Customers must provide documents for identification, proof of address, and proof of payment method to successfully pass the test and withdraw their winnings.
Verification is obviously impossible if the person uses VPN services to mask their location because the country and address on their real government-issued ID will not match. VPN usage is disallowed by most online casinos for several primary reasons:
- To hinder the access of players who reside in restricted countries
- To curb multi-accounting and potential bonus abuse
- To prevent irresponsible gaming and hinder problem players from regaining access to gambling services
- To thwart fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing
It becomes clear online casinos prohibit virtual private networks mostly because they want to avoid getting into hot water with their regulators.
Regulatory failings like providing underage or restricted players with access to gambling are heavily penalized with massive fines, license suspension, or even license revocation.
Few, if any, regulated companies would willingly allow or overlook VPN use at the expense of losing their operating permits and having their reputation tarnished.
When Is Using VPN Illegal?
Connecting to virtual private networks for general purposes is legal under most governments but the exact legalities vary from one country to the next. In most democratic countries, citizens can legally use a VPN when browsing the internet to protect themselves against potential hacking attacks and other cybercrimes.
Illegal Usage of VPN
Countries with Bans or Restrictions on VPN Use
Closing Remarks
Verified players traveling abroad should contact the support representatives of their gambling sites to inquire whether they can access their accounts from the respective country they are visiting. Concealing your real geographical location via VPN to feign you are in your country of residence while abroad is rarely a good idea as we saw from the case of Gordon Vayo and Poker Stars.
The same goes for attempting to register at online casinos from a restricted country. They will inevitably catch you, freeze your account, and confiscate your winnings. You should not forget everything that is already illegal remains illegal whether or not a person is using a virtual private network. We recommend you refrain from using a VPN to access online casinos if the laws in your jurisdiction prohibit remote gambling.
