US and Canada say "No" to Gambling

Visa has followed Mastercards lead, as we reported last week, in banning the use of it's cards to US citizens wanting to have a flutter in their favourite online casino or poker establishment.  Also, Canada has come out in force against Loto Quebec for its new gambling plans based in the provience.

Visa Blocks Online Gambling Payment

Following its industry rival, Master Card’s decision to block payment for online gambling services, Visa has also taken these steps. It was confirmed by thousands of US players that they were having trouble paying for their entertainment using Visa cards. A possible explanation in the credit card groups’ change of policy is the impending implementation of the UIGEA in June. Alternative payment processors have reported an upsurge in business as US players seek out their services.

Loto Quebec Meets Opposition for Online Gambling Plans

Public health officials in Quebec have asked the government to put a moratorium on plans to introduce online gambling to the province this year. Loto Quebec rolled out its plans to launch poker and casino sites by the fall, and hopes to pull in $50 million in revenue by 2013 as a result. The health officials are requesting further studies into the risks of online gambling before the sites are launched, however Loto Quebec has defended its decision and said that Quebeckers are already gambling online at 2,000 casino sites. The new sites would provide them with an alternative option that could at least be regulated by the government, said the corporation.

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