The authorities in China have implemented strict measures to combat online gambling, resulting in the closure of numerous poker applications. Law enforcement agencies, particularly in Shenzhen, have intensified their efforts, apprehending 71 individuals for utilizing platforms such as WeChat and QQ for gambling purposes. This crackdown has had a significant impact on the industry, leading to more stringent regulations.
Well-known applications like Poker King and Poker Tribe have been affected, and many Texas Hold’em applications have been removed from app stores.
These platforms often attempt to justify their operations by claiming to possess licenses from jurisdictions like the Philippines, even going to the extent of modifying their names to avoid detection. State-controlled media outlets have criticized Apple for hosting approximately 25,000 illegal lottery applications, compelling the company to remove them.
It is evident that the Chinese government is determined to eradicate what it perceives as a corrupting influence and is prepared to sustain its efforts over an extended period.