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Action has been taken against Polymarket.com, a website run by Web3 developer Adventure One QSS, by the French gambling regulator ANJ. The ANJ found that the website’s products, including online slots, were “likely” illegal under French gambling regulations after conducting an investigation in November. Such games of chance are currently illegal in France, which has drawn regulatory attention.
To resolve the matter, the ANJ contacted Adventure One QSS, which is licensed in Panama. The operator committed to putting in place a geoblocking mechanism by the end of November in order to limit access to users who were located inside French territory. On November 21, the geoblock went into force, guaranteeing adherence to French laws.
This case gained attention when Bloomberg reported in October that the ANJ might take action against Polymarket. The platform’s gambling offerings had been available to French users despite legal restrictions, prompting regulatory intervention. ANJ advised affected players to contact Adventure One QSS directly for support regarding the geoblock.
Polymarket has faced legal challenges in other jurisdictions as well. In 2022, the platform paid a $1.4 million fine to the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The penalty was imposed after Polymarket failed to register with the agency, leading to a temporary suspension of trading activities.
This development highlights the challenges faced by Web3 platforms navigating complex global gambling regulations. As authorities like the ANJ tighten oversight, operators must adapt to ensure legal compliance in multiple jurisdictions. Polymarket’s decision to cooperate with the ANJ demonstrates the increasing pressure on decentralized platforms to align with local laws.
The ANJ’s intervention serves as a reminder of the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding online gambling and blockchain-based platforms. By enforcing legal standards, regulators aim to protect consumers while ensuring fair competition in the market.