Identifying Scam Sites
Protect yourself from fraudulent betting platforms with our comprehensive guide to identifying red flags, verifying legitimacy, and staying safe online.
Major Red Flags to Watch For
Licensing & Regulation
- No gambling license information displayed
- Claims to be licensed but provides no license number
- License from unknown or questionable jurisdiction
- Expired or suspended license
Website Quality
- Poor website design and functionality
- Spelling and grammar errors throughout
- Broken links or missing pages
- No HTTPS security (unsecured connection)
Payment Methods
- Only accepts cryptocurrency or untraceable payments
- Asks for payment via gift cards or wire transfers
- No major credit card or e-wallet options
- Requests payment before account verification
Bonuses & Promotions
- Unrealistic bonus offers (500%+ welcome bonuses)
- No clear terms and conditions
- Impossible wagering requirements
- Guarantees of winnings or 'sure bets'
Customer Service
- No customer support contact information
- Only live chat support (no phone/email)
- Unresponsive or rude customer service
- Support team can't answer basic questions
How to Verify a Platform's Legitimacy
Check Licensing
Verify the platform holds valid licenses from recognized authorities
Research Reviews
Look for genuine user reviews and expert opinions
Test Customer Service
Contact support with questions before depositing
Check Security
Ensure proper security measures are in place
Common Betting Scams
Fake Licensed Sites
Sites claiming false licenses or using expired credentials
How It Works:
Display fake license logos or reference non-existent authorities
How to Protect Yourself:
Always verify licenses directly with the issuing authority
Bonus Trap Sites
Platforms offering impossible bonuses to attract deposits
How It Works:
Offer huge bonuses with hidden or impossible wagering requirements
How to Protect Yourself:
Read all terms carefully and avoid offers that seem too good to be true
Withdrawal Delay Tactics
Sites that accept deposits but make withdrawal difficult
How It Works:
Create endless verification loops or technical excuses for delays
How to Protect Yourself:
Test small withdrawals first and research withdrawal experiences
Identity Theft Operations
Sites designed primarily to collect personal information
How It Works:
Request excessive personal documents without legitimate business need
How to Protect Yourself:
Only provide necessary documents to verified, licensed platforms
Clone Sites
Fake versions of legitimate betting platforms
How It Works:
Copy design and branding of real sites with slightly different URLs
How to Protect Yourself:
Always type URLs directly or use bookmarks, never click random links
Trusted Licensing Authorities
UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
License verification search available
Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
Authorized games register
Curacao Gaming Control
License verification available
New Jersey Gaming Enforcement
Authorized operator list
Essential Protection Tips
Research First
Never deposit money without thoroughly researching the platform's reputation and licensing
Start Small
Make a small deposit first and test the withdrawal process before committing larger amounts
Use Secure Methods
Prefer payment methods that offer protection and avoid irreversible payment options
Monitor Accounts
Regularly check your accounts and transactions for any unauthorized activity
If You've Been Scammed
Contact your bank immediately to report fraudulent transactions and potentially stop or reverse payments.
Report to authorities: File complaints with your local consumer protection agency and relevant gambling regulators.
Document everything: Keep screenshots, emails, and records of all interactions and transactions.
Warn others: Share your experience on review sites and forums to help protect other potential victims.
Choose Verified, Trusted Platforms
Protect yourself by only using platforms we've verified and vetted. Our ratings include security checks and licensing verification.