Bangladesh Blocks Online Gambling Transactions
The Bangladesh Bank has ordered all 13 Mobile Financial Service (MFS) providers to immediately block any transactions linked to online gambling.
Central Bank Requirements for MFS Providers
Following instructions from the ICT Division, the central bank issued formal letters to operators, directing them to take action against illegal activities. Companies are required to strengthen oversight and implement new measures to prevent transactions associated with online gambling.
Key Tasks for Operators
MFS providers have been instructed to carry out several mandatory actions:
- compile lists of accounts suspected of involvement in gambling-related transactions
- form dedicated task forces to monitor and stop illicit transfers
- introduce AI-based systems to detect suspicious activity in real time
- launch complaint portals and hotline services for public reporting
- maintain documentation and supply relevant data to the Financial Intelligence Unit
Nagad and bKash stated that they already monitor suspicious activity and report findings to the appropriate authorities.
Monitoring and Coordination with Operators
The Bangladesh Bank has scheduled a meeting with seven leading MFS operators on November 6. The meeting will assess current monitoring tools and determine the companies’ readiness to implement additional control measures.
Evaluating Operator Preparedness
During the discussions, the central bank will review how effective existing monitoring systems are in identifying illegal transfers and what further tools may be required to enhance enforcement against online gambling.
Expansion of Control Measures
The new rules aim to fully cut off financial flows linked to illegal gambling. The introduction of portals and hotlines will allow citizens to report suspicious transactions directly. All submitted information will be reviewed according to established procedures and recorded as part of the national monitoring system.
The initiative to block gambling-related transactions has completed its implementation phase and marks a significant step in Bangladesh’s efforts to combat illegal online gambling.