Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Prepaid Visa Joins The Money Laundering Crusade

While doing some research last night, I stumbled upon this press release from Netspend (a leading Prepaid Visa provider). Although the press release is a few weeks old, its timing is curious - shortly after the DOJ dropped the hammer on Neteller.

This also probably explains why I wasn't able to apply for a Virgin Mobile Stash card (a Netspend branded prepaid), because it was drawn on an international bank. I'm guessing they didn't care to comply with the DOJ, so they're no longer available to new customers.

Now most use these prepaids to deposit but it appears the DOJ is using the money laundering angle to limit their effectiveness.

As for withdrawals, unless a new Ewallet steps up to fill the void, it seems checks are going to be the only consistent way to cash out of US facing poker sites.

Today is not just Valentines day - It's the Annual FIBA Anti Money Laundering Conference. Join in the fun!

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