Online gambling scams come in many shapes and sizes, from fake casino sites to phishing emails that steal your login details. The best defense is knowing what to look for, proactively protecting yourself, and keeping your eyes open.
I cover the most common online gambling scams across casinos, betting, and poker, with practical tips to help you avoid them and protect your bankroll!
General Online Gambling Scams
The first group of online gambling scams are spread across all types of internet gambling, whether you play poker, spin slots, or bet on sports. Here’s what to watch for and how to protect yourself.
1. Identity Theft
Scammers often pose as legitimate gambling sites to steal personal data like your name, address, and payment details. They might mimic real casino brands or send fake verification emails asking for ID or banking info.
How to avoid it:
Only upload documents directly through your account dashboard and only if the site is trusted, Never use email links, messengers, or any forms of communication that are suspicious.
It’s also important to double-check the site URL and security certificate (look for “https” in the URL) before entering any sensitive information.
Overall, make sure you’re only sharing personal information if you’re 100% certain that whoever’s asking it is legit.
2. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are one of the oldest tricks in the book. You’ll get an email or text that looks real, claiming your account needs “urgent verification”, offering a special bonus link, or something similar.
How to avoid it:
Never click links in emails or messages, and never download files from unknown sources. Instead, go straight to the operator’s website or app yourself. If in doubt, contact customer support through official channels. Reputable gambling sites will never pressure you to act immediately or share personal data over email.
3. Spyware and Ransomware
Hackers sometimes use malware to steal passwords or lock you out of your computer until you pay a ransom. Online gamblers are prime targets since casino accounts often store real money.
How to avoid it:
Keep your antivirus and operating system updated. Avoid downloading casino software from unverified sites and use browser play or official app stores instead. If your screen ever locks with a ransom demand, don’t pay. Contact IT support to safely remove the malware.
4. Blatant Theft
Some shady gambling sites exist solely to take your money and disappear. They delay withdrawals, freeze accounts, or claim you violated their terms to avoid paying out.
How to avoid it:
Do a quick background check before depositing and make sure you’re only joining trusted gambling sites.
Online Casino Scams
Casino scams often center on rigged or manipulated games and bonus offers with unrealistic terms. Understanding how these schemes work can help you avoid losing money before it’s too late.
Here are the most common ones.
1. Rigged or Pirated Games
Fraudulent casinos sometimes use pirated software that looks like the real thing but pays out far less. These games aren’t audited and can be coded to make you lose over time.
How to avoid it:
Play only at trusted casino sites that use verified software providers and display independent audit seals (like eCOGRA or iTech Labs). Live dealer games are another safe bet. They can’t be digitally rigged the same way, as long you pick the games of a trusted company like Evolution Gaming or FreshDeck Studios.
2. Predatory Bonus Terms
Bonuses are supposed to attract players, but scam sites use them to trap you. Common tactics include sky-high wagering requirements, hidden withdrawal limits, or rules that void your winnings if you miss a fine-print clause.
How to avoid it:
Always read the bonus terms. Legit sites list wagering requirements clearly (e.g., 30x or 35x) and don’t use predatory terms that would make it impossible to get your money. If the rules sound confusing or inconsistent, move on to a more transparent casino.
We also have a guide on calculating the value of casino bonuses, so check it out for more helpful tips.
Online Betting Scams
Many online sports betting scams target new players, using big bonus offers or fake guarantees to lure them in. Once you try to cash out, the rules make it nearly impossible.
To avoid these pitfalls, use trusted sportsbooks known for fair rules, reliable payouts, and consistent bet settlement.
1. Bet Settlement Tricks
Some scam sportsbooks settle bets incorrectly, void winning wagers, or “delay verification” until the event is over to avoid payouts.
How to avoid it:
Use trusted sportsbooks known for fair bet settlement. Always take screenshots of bet slips and transaction histories. If an operator regularly disputes winning bets, it’s a major red flag.
2. Fake Tipsters and Handicappers
Scammers pose as betting “gurus” selling guaranteed picks or “inside info.” They post fabricated winning tickets to build credibility, then vanish after collecting subscription fees.
How to avoid it:
Never pay for picks, unless you’re 100% sure the history of the account is legitimate and stats shown are not only true but also replicable.
3. Bonus Abuse Clauses
Some betting sites disguise unfair terms under big deposit bonuses, leaving players stuck when it’s time to withdraw.
How to avoid it:
Stick with sportsbooks that make their bonus terms clear and attainable. A good rule: if you can’t find or understand the fine print, skip the offer.
Online Poker Scams
Poker scams revolve around unfair play and account manipulation, often carried out by players or the sites themselves. Here are the most notable scams and how to avoid them.
1. Rigged RNGs (Random Number Generators)
A legitimate poker site uses certified RNG software to deal cards randomly. In scams, the RNG can be rigged to favor certain players or outcomes. We’ve even seen superusers in the past that can see the cards of other players.
How to avoid it:
Play only on poker sites that publish RNG certification results. You can also cross-check fairness through independent testing bodies listed on the site’s footer.
2. Collusion and Bot Rings
Some players work together or use poker bots to gain an unfair advantage. Colluders share hole cards privately, while bots play nonstop to grind small wins.
How to avoid it:
Stick to poker sites with active fraud detection and user reporting tools. Avoid private or unverified poker apps where gameplay oversight is limited. Make sure to report any suspicious activity, so the platform is clear of scammers and bots.
3. Stolen Funds or Locked Accounts
In rare cases, even semi-legit poker sites may delay or freeze withdrawals for weeks. This often happens under vague “security reviews.”
How to avoid it:
Deposit small amounts first to test the site and make sure to test payout speed. Trusted poker rooms process withdrawals within a few business days and provide clear communication.
How to Avoid Online Gambling Scams
Avoiding gambling scams comes down to awareness and consistency. Here are the golden rules:
- Research first. Read reviews, forums, and expert recommendations before you sign up.
- Deposit small and test payouts before committing larger amounts.
- Keep your device secure. Update antivirus and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
- Avoid third-party downloads. Only install apps from official stores.
- Read the fine print. Terms and conditions reveal more than bonus banners.
- Stick to safe gambling sites. Check our recommended safe online gambling sites for trusted options.
Overall, be sure to stick to safe online casinos that have strong reputations, secure payments, and transparent terms.
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