Singapore Pools app can be used to bet from overseas, despite rules against it
CNA reports that the Singapore Pools mobile app allows users to place bets from overseas, despite strict regulations requiring betting to occur only within Singapore. The Gambling Regulatory Authority is investigating the potential non-compliance of these geofencing measures.
Why it matters
This highlights a significant regulatory failure in enforcing remote gambling laws, raising questions about the efficacy of digital geofencing in a globalized market.
CNA tested the app in the UK and Italy and placed bets successfully; other users report similar workarounds from countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and China.
The Singapore Pools app being accessed on a smartphone in London. (Photo: CNA/Fabian Koh)
Fabian Koh 20 Jul 2026 06:00AM (Updated: 20 Jul 2026 07:54AM) Bookmark Bookmark Share WhatsApp Telegram Facebook Twitter Email LinkedIn Set CNA as your preferred source on Google Add CNA as a trusted source to help Google better understand and surface our content in search results. Read a summary of this article on FAST. Get bite-sized news via a new cards interface. Give it a try. Click here to return to FAST Tap here to return to FAST FAST SINGAPORE: The Singapore Pools app can be used to place bets from overseas, despite a requirement that betting stay within Singapore, CNA found.
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