TLDR Bangladesh has started a national campaign warning the public about the risks of online gambling. The push is backed by Bangladesh Bank, the Criminal Investigation Department, and bKash. It follows the Gambling Prevention Act 2026, which took effect on July 1. Offenders can face up to two years in prison, fines up to BDT100m, and arrest without a warrant. The new law replaces an 1867 statute and now covers online gambling, digital casinos, and crypto-related gambling.
Bangladesh has kicked off a country-wide campaign to warn citizens about the dangers of online gambling. The effort covers legal risks, financial harm, and social problems tied to internet betting.
The campaign is being run with support from Bangladesh Bank, the Criminal Investigation Department, and bKash. Messages are being spread through television ads, newspaper notices, and social media posts.
New Law Takes Effect
The campaign lines up with the Gambling Prevention Act 2026, which became active on July 1. Officials say the goal is to educate the public while also warning people who are already gambling illegally online.
Under the new rules, offenders could face up to two years in prison. Fines can reach BDT100m, which is close to US$81,300.
Police can also make arrests without a warrant. Authorities say these penalties show the scope of the updated legal system.
The campaign is reaching people through several channels at once. Television, print newspapers, and social platforms are all being used to spread the warnings.
Wider Enforcement Powers
The new law replaces the old Public Gambling Act from 1867. That colonial-era statute did not account for modern online activity.
The updated law now covers a wider range of activity. This includes online gambling, sports betting, digital casinos, and crypto-related gambling.
Officials say this gives them power to investigate people who gamble