The central bank of Bangladesh has instructed all banks and financial institutions to step up monitoring of online gambling transactions. It also directed them to adopt AI (artificial intelligence) tools to detect suspicious activity. This is in the middle of a wider government crackdown on digital gaming platforms.
The Payment Systems Department of Bangladesh Bank issued the directive on May 28. It calls for immediate action when banks suspect customers or merchants of involvement in online gambling. Moreover, it mandates the quick notification of law enforcement agencies.
The directive advises banks to use AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology to monitor gambling-related activities. It also urges them to raise public awareness about the social and financial risks linked to gambling. Financial institutions should also make sure that registered merchants operate strictly within their declared business areas.
With the newly enacted Cyber Security Ordinance 2025, which restricts all forms of online gambling, the measures align. A fine of up to one crore take or $90,000, or both, violations under Section 20 of the ordinance can result in up to two years in prison. Sections 21 and 22 cover the related offenses.
In the middle of a broader enforcement effort, the directive comes. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Bangladesh Police launched a nationwide crackdown on illegal online gambling networks on May 27. Authorities identified over 5,000 MFS or mobile financial service accounts connected to gambling. Authorities have named over 1,000 agents for possible license cancellations and financial penalties.
The CID’s action follows the government’s announcement of legal proceedings against 1,100 agents involved in digital betting operations.
Bangladeshi courts are also inspecting the proliferation of gambling content. The High Court ordered ministries and regulators to explain how such content remains accessible on digital platforms in May. With findings due within 90 days, a seven-member committee was appointed to investigate celebrity involvement in gambling promotions.
