Mastercard blocks online transactions for US players

By Daniel Johnson

US gaming enthusiasts suffered a further blow this week following major news concerning online payments. It has been revealed that Mastercard have succeeded in blocking online payments to gaming venues from US players. The enforced restriction represents the latest successful attempt to perform such a feat. Mastercard had previously attempted to impose such a scheme using a variety of coding systems. These unpopular measures were, however, consistently overcome by casino operators much to the frustration of the Mastercard company.

Many regard the new block as a direct response to a recent federal court ruling in which Douglas Rennick was accused of having dealt in more than $350 million worth of online gaming transactions. Last Monday saw Rennick's contempt order upheld. Mastercard's recent activity may well represent an effort to pre-empt future legal action and avoid the negative publicity such scandals inevitably create.

Canadian players, meanwhile, will be delighted to learn that they are exempt from such restrictions which impact only on US residents. Mastercard users in the US are now seeking alternative methods through which to process their online transactions. eWallets and prepaid cards are proving two of the most popular solutions to the problem and work as third party payment solutions. This is a particularly attractive option since it allows players to make deposits and withdrawals without demanding that its users disclose their personal details. As millions of casino fans lament the new ban, others will no doubt be looking ahead to an exciting week for gaming. This weekend will see the arrival of the long anticipated SuperBowl which is guaranteed to put a smile on some faces!