Bank Blocks Betting: Bangladesh Bank Orders Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling Transactions
In a decisive move to curb illegal financial transactions linked to online gambling, the Bangladesh Bank has directed all Mobile Financial Service (MFS) providers in the country to take immediate preventive measures.
According to the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division’s directive, the central bank has recently issued official letters to 13 MFS operators, instructing them to take stringent action against accounts suspected of involvement in gambling-related transactions.
The Bangladesh Bank has ordered the operators to prepare a list of suspicious accounts, form a dedicated task force, and implement an AI-powered automated monitoring system to detect and prevent illegal activities in real time. Additionally, the letter advised the creation of a public reporting portal and helpline where individuals can lodge complaints related to online gambling transactions.
Taking a firm stance on the issue, the central bank has also scheduled a meeting with seven MFS operators on November 6 to discuss the current control mechanisms, monitoring capacities, and the necessary support required to strengthen enforcement efforts.
Officials suggest that this coordinated initiative marks a significant step toward ensuring a safer and more transparent digital financial ecosystem in Bangladesh.
