The continent seeks to combat fraud with tough new regulations
Countries in the EU might be allowed to suspend online casino use should they feel it necessary, according to new rulings introduced by the European Union Court of Justice (EUCJ).
The organisation has decided that nations can outlaw use of online roulette and online slots in the fight against fraud.
The issue was brought to light after Dutch non-profit gaming organisation De Lotto suggested that players in Holland be restricted from using overseas unlicensed gaming sites. The EUCJ said:
"Such a restriction may be justified, in particular, by the objectives of consumer protection and the prevention of both fraud and incitement to squander money on gambling, as well as the need to preserve public order."
Online casino laws around the world
Kerching members in the UK will be pleased to note that domestic online casino laws are much less stringent than elsewhere. In France, players can only use gaming websites that the government considers to be "respecting public and social order".
Australian law means gamers can use offshore sites, but operating in the country itself is against the law. A recent report from Global Betting and Gaming Consultants revealed that punters using unregulated and unlicensed online casinos in Australia will cost the country as much as $968 billion (£578m) before the end of 2010.
Betfair CEO Andrew Twaits suggested that legalising gaming would bring more money into Australia as well as help operators keep track of any potential gambling problems among players.