Online casinos are illegal in Japan! Are they illegal for foreigners too?
Hello, this is Kano from JAC (Japan Association for Construction Human Resources).
Some people may have become interested in online casinos while living in Japan.
However, online casinos are illegal in Japan.
This time, we will explain what kind of crime online casinos are in Japan and what happens if a foreigner uses an online casino in Japan.
What is an online casino? Is it illegal in Japan?
An online casino is a casino that you can play at over the internet.
Just like in a real casino, you can bet money on a variety of games, including roulette, blackjack, and slot machines.
If you have a computer or smartphone, you can easily play anytime, anywhere.
Online casinos are illegal in Japan!
Online casinos are illegal in Japan.
Japanese law prohibits gambling (betting money).
There are also online casino sites around the world that are licensed and operated by the governments of their respective countries.
However, even on such sites, it is a crime to access and play from within Japan.
It's not true that it's okay just because it's not a Japanese site.
In addition, inviting others to play at online casinos is also prohibited by Japanese law.
What kind of crime is it if I play at an online casino in Japan?
If you play at an online casino in Japan, you may be charged with gambling.
There are two types of gambling offences:
- Simple gambling offense
- Habitual gambling offense
Simple gambling offense
This may apply if you temporarily bet money on something.
You may be subject to a fine or penalty of up to 500,000 yen.
Habitual gambling offense
The following cases may be considered "habitual gambling offences".
- If you gamble repeatedly
- If you work in gambling
Imprisonment for up to three years may be imposed.
Beware of the "free version" of online casinos!
Never use online casinos, whether they are paid or free.
Online casinos work by registering money and card information in an account, playing with points, and exchanging them for cash.
They may also try to lure you in with phrases like "free first-time offer."
Because it is easy to play, it is difficult to distinguish it from regular game charges, and people may use it without realizing that it is a crime.
Please be careful as you may be misled while watching the video.
Is it illegal for foreigners to play at online casinos in Japan?
Foreigners in Japan who use online casinos will be subject to the same penalties as Japanese people.
Japanese law prohibits gambling activities conducted within Japan, regardless of nationality.
Even if you are a foreign tourist staying in Japan temporarily, if you access an online casino from within Japan and gamble, you will be violating Japanese law.
Of course, the same applies to foreigners living in Japan.
If you use an online casino from within Japan even once, you could be arrested or have to pay a fine.
So it's a very risky move.
For those who come to Japan to work, using online casinos can make life in Japan difficult.
Beware of illegal gambling other than online casinos!
Although it is not an online casino, you should also be careful of solicitations for illegal gambling targeting foreigners.
Technical Intern Training students working in Japan are gathered through social media, and illegal gambling is carried out in various parts of Japan.
It seems that there are many cases where people who are in trouble with work or money are invited to "make money easily".
In fact, some people regret it because their debt increases.
Those who operate illegal gambling establishments may also be involved in other dangerous activities besides gambling.
In Osaka, there was an incident where a person's finger was amputated due to gambling debts.
Be careful not to be fooled by "easy money" or dangerous offers.
If you are in trouble, contact a support group or the police immediately.
Online casinos are strengthening their security measures!
In Japan, the number of people playing online casinos is increasing.
Some people know it's illegal, while others do it unaware.
Due to this situation, police are stepping up their crackdown on online casinos.
Remember, if you are involved with online casinos, you could be arrested.
Not only the operators of online casinos but also those who use them will be subject to punishment.
Police are appealing for information regarding online casinos.
If you have any information about online casinos or if you know someone around you having trouble with online casinos, you can contact the "Anonymous Reporting Hotline."
Anonymous reporting hotline: 0120-924-839 (toll-free, confidentiality guaranteed)
Online casinos are very risky.
If you have any problems with online casinos, please consult with someone you trust or a helpline.
Summary: Playing online casinos in Japan is illegal! If you have any problems, ask for help.
Online casinos are illegal in Japan.
Even if a website is operated by a country other than Japan with permission from that country's government, you may be subject to punishment if you use it from within Japan.
This applies to both Japanese and foreigners.
If you play at an online casino, you may be charged with gambling and be subject to fines, penalties, and imprisonment.
Inviting people to play at online casinos is also a crime.
Recently, illegal gambling targeting foreign Technical Intern Training students through SNS has also become a problem.
Even if you are told that you can make money easily, please do not do it.
Police are stepping up their crackdown on online casinos, and have set up an anonymous hotline for information.
Online casinos are very dangerous.
If you get into trouble, it is important to talk to people around you rather than struggling alone.
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