Blocked by the ANJ last June, Cresus Casino is once again accessible under a new domain name. The question of the legal framework is becoming crucial in view of the growing popularity of illegal online gaming.
On June 20, France's National Gaming Authority (ANJ ) succeeded in blocking the country's largest online casino site, Cresus Casino, which averaged 2 million monthly visitors. The blocking was prompted by numerous reports of unpaid winnings.
However, the site quickly changed its domain name and has been accessible again since July via a mirror site. Players can now enjoy the slots again, although withdrawals are no longer guaranteed. The ANJ is struggling to block the site again, which continues to attract a large community of players.
In addition to blocking the site, the ANJ has announced its intention to take legal action against the site's illegal operators. French law provides for up to three years' imprisonment and a €90,000 fine, with penalties rising to seven years' imprisonment and a €200,000 fine in the case of organized crime. 
The question of a legal framework for online casinos in France
Although illegal, the number of online casinos is exploding in France, generating billions of euros for foreign-based operators.
Given the inability to control this boom, the ANJ and the French National Assembly should consider getting together to draw up a law enabling players to enjoy online casinos within a secure framework, in collaboration with established operators such as Tranchant, Barrière, JOA, Partouche or Circus.
Legal online gaming in France
It should be noted that French law only permits certain types of online gambling, such as sports betting, poker and circle games in general, where players compete against each other.
On the other hand, games of chance such as slot machines and classic online casino games like roulette or blackjack are not permitted under current French legislation.
To find out more about available online gaming options and secure sites, you can, for example, consult the comparison and evaluation site laplanquedujoueur.com.
