Is Online Gambling Legal in Singapore? A Concise Overview

With the development of online platforms and social media spaces, gambling has now sprouted on these platforms as well. Mobile computing has made betting online a possibility, allowing people staying at home to have access to online casinos in countries all over the world. But is it legal in Singapore? 

The country’s practical approach and proper legal framework are in place to serve as safeguards to ensure people do not fall prey to social harm. To help put into perspective how things work, it is important to know the regulating authorities and government bodies involved. 

Now that you know who the key players are, let’s find about the legal status of betting in Singapore.

What Constitutes Gambling?

The definition of gambling is the act of engaging in money-winning activities like betting, participating in lotteries, and playing games. Players stake money on an anticipated outcome to win more money. 

To put it simply, any money wagered is considered gambling, and any other game that does not involve money is not. However, Singaporeans are allowed to practice physical social gambling amongst family members, the odd game of mahjong is so embedded in Singapore culture.

Popular gambling games in the Asian region include Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat and Slots just to name a few. Singaporean players no longer need to physically walk into Marina Bay Sands or Resorts World Sentosa to enjoy a game or two. Even other financial products already regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore should be pretty safe too. 

However, gambling laws are always changing. This is why it is important for every player to keep up to date on the latest changes.

Just recently the Ministry of Home Affairs sought feedback from the general public on amending laws that governs everything from social betting, mystery boxes, arcade games, claw machines including online and video games with elements such as loot boxes. They wanted to know what citizens thought about the penalties for repeat offenders who continue to facilitate illegal gambling.

It would seem that the ministry is starting to be more concerned about other trends coming up in the betting landscape especially online social sector which is prohibited.

But with advancements in technology and Covid all around us, players are turning to remote gambling services to get their entertainment, and this is starting to blur out the boundaries between gaming and gambling.

Online Gambling under Remote Gambling Act

Remote Gambling Act (RGA) has a special focus on maintaining and observing online bets despite enforcement difficulties. So what falls under online gambling?

What is the act of online gambling?

Online gambling (also known as remote gambling) involves players betting on gambling products as a form of entertainment. Access is via remote communication which includes the internet, telephones, television, radio and any other form of communication. Although laws are in place to act as a deterrence, advancements in technology mean almost anyone can have access to any online casino through various services from the privacy of their own homes.

The legality of Online Gambling

To keep things simple and easy to remember, unless you are gambling through an exempted operator like Singapore Pools and Singapore Turf Club, everything else is considered illegal. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) might give out certificates to other operators and remote gambling services in the future, but the only way to be sure is to confirm it with the ministry themselves.

So even if residents of Singapore were to play arcade games, claw machines or take part in any other form of remote gambling like Sports Toto, 4D, horse racing, it is best to stick to those provided by Singapore Turf Club and Singapore Pools. Otherwise, you’ll risk getting slapped with a hefty fine of $5000 or end up in jail for 6 months.

Placing bets through a bookie is a game of chance and there is always a risk of getting caught. So keep it legal, check your service provider often and you shouldn’t face any problem safely.

Consequences of Online Gambling:

If a person is in illegal gambling or remote gambling on any other site other than the exempted ones then he has to face severe consequences. The penalties that apply for all forms of gambling are not only under the Remote Gambling Act but also the Common Gaming Houses Act which governs public gambling and casino games. This includes online gambling that is strictly monitored by the Singapore government. 

According to the Remote Gambling Act, there is a three-tiered penalty for illegal gamblers and repeat offenders can expect to face much more severe punishment. Operators usually get the highest penalty followed by bookies and then punters. 

You are not allowed to accept the credit you won, be it a cheque, bank draft, or any other prize. If caught and found guilty, you could be fined $5000 or be sent to prison for six months or both. Although if you’re a first-time offender, they might let you off with a $1000 fine to avoid getting imprisoned.

Prohibition against inviting persons under 21 to gamble online:

In Singapore, you have to be 21 to gamble. Therefore, even sending an invitation to anyone under the age of 21 to gamble is considered an offence. This includes sending an advertisement to the underage person, providing information, or encouraging them to join online casinos.

If found guilty, the fine is as high as $20,000 or $30,000 with the possibility of imprisonment for six years. If you are 21 and above, you may checkout the most popular online casinos in Singapore by clicking button below.

Tips on Gambling Legally In Singapore:

Clearly gambling is not encouraged in Singapore but if you must, you should only limit yourself to the two exempted platforms.

As long as you abide by these regulations and tips you should be able to play without getting into trouble.

Steps To Take If You Have Been Charged With a Gambling Offense:

If somehow you are caught in illegal gambling, it is best to engage a criminal lawyer immediately to represent you. Never try to get out of this situation on your own because you will not have the legal background and skills to help you in such cases. If there was no money involved, your lawyer can bring this up in court and you should be absolved of all charges.