Tech-savvy folks can get around the tough measures, say experts

One aim of the Remote Gambling Bill is that by blocking gambling websites, cutting payment gateways and banning pop-up adverts, no one will stumble on them by chance.

But will online options really dry up?

Some critics tell Insight the measures are not foolproof, given today's tech-savvy consumers who know how to circumvent online restrictions.

For instance, Internet service providers (ISPs) are required to block websites only when directed by the Media Development Authority.

The blocking mechanism is not prescribed. But if ISPs are required to block only the original Web address - like how they are made to block pornography websites - then it is easy to circumvent prohibited sites.

Virtual private network (VPN) services - sold initially to corporations to secure their Internet links - can mask any Web traffic.

VPN services are easily available and sold to individuals for as little as $10 a month.

So when punters use VPN services, ISPs will not be able to detect access to a gambling website, much less block the access.

And most gambling websites have "proxy" Web addresses - alternative addresses that can be entered into Web browsers to take users to the blocked sites.

So, killing the payment gateway seems the only measure that goes far enough to stop most problem gamblers.

Sure, lawmakers here could have made things tougher, such as by criminalising all parties, including banks, that assist in making online gambling payments - as in the US.

Here, financial institutions are required to block payment to certain websites only if directed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

"This relieves the banks from having to do their own detective work as to which account is in aid of online gambling payments," says Mr Yap Wai Ming, director of Stamford Law Corporation.

Once payment using Singapore-issued banking cards no longer works at prohibited sites, determined punters might use payment intermediaries and e-wallet service providers like US-based PayPal and UK-based Neteller.

But PayPal, which operates here, says it will comply with local laws. As for Neteller, it is unclear, as it does not have an office here.

Even so, it is not easy to transfer money cheaply to these e-wallets.

Wire transfers cost at least $20 per transaction. The other option - setting up an overseas credit card or savings account, or using someone else's - is inconvenient and can be costly.

Virtual currencies such as Bitcoin are accepted by some gambling websites and e-wallets. But the technological barrier is too high for the average Joe.

An avid gambler of 15 years who declined to be named tells Insight these payment options are "self-defeating" due to the high cost and inconvenience.

This is why he believes that the primitive method of using illegal bookies - actual people who take bets at agreed-upon odds - will make a comeback.

Insight understands that bookies set up accounts at gambling sites for customers and process payments on their behalf.

Most do not operate here and accept only cash. But punters have to find ways to access the blocked sites themselves.

"The challenge is the enforcement of the law," the gambler says.

Another potential outcome is that once the Bill is passed, it may cause government-sanctioned Singapore Pools to raise its game.

Punters point to its low winnings and uncompetitive odds. This is why they turn to alternative online sources, they maintain.

itham@sph.com.sg

This article was first published on Sept 13, 2014.
Get a copy of The Straits Times or go to straitstimes.com for more stories.