Common Online Casino Scams and Top Safety Measures to Observe
Due to the increase in online security breaches, safety is paramount when you play casino online. Scammers go to great lengths to steal your money, get away with the theft, or hide behind shady terms. For example, many online casino crooks hide behind numerous firewalls that make tracking the crooks’ locations difficult.
In some cases, the crooks set up scam sites that look like legit casinos to lure you. So, your first line of defence is knowledge. But, first, understand how online scammers work and ways to be smarter than trickery.
How Scam Online Casinos Target Naive Users
Many people fall victim to scam online casinos, but you can avoid non-legit sites with thorough research. Nonetheless, even legit sites often become victims of crooks. One of the worst ways black hats affect legit casinos is reputation ruin. So, which tricks do scammers use to steal or pose as legit online casinos? Read on to find out.
Identity Theft
Black hats steal and sell your information to the most noteworthy bidder. Many bidders would want to buy your data and expect your character. The information is then used to beat you on the poker table and other games. Whereas identity threat is a huge risk in online casinos, the laws around identity theft carry huge penalties. Due to the consequences, the option is less attractive to thieves.
Deposit Theft
Deposit theft is when you deposit funds but find it impossible to withdraw them. A common way scam sites do so is to freeze your accounts or close your accounts. After that, you have to go through endless ops to reactivate your account. Even if you reach out to customer services, you get no help, or the agents ignore your calls. If your deposit is small, you will likely give up the search.
Ransomware
Some online entities will convince you to download the software as part of the registration process. If you work with a trusted online casino, the software is a legit part of the startup. The problem arises when black hats set up a scam site. The software tells you that your files are now someone else’s property unless you pay at the end of the download.
Rigged Games
Rigged games occur when the casino lets your win and then washes out all your wins in one move. Online scammers aim to use unfair means to make you lose money. So, scammers only need good rigged software or pirated versions of legit games. Pirated versions are difficult to spot with untrained eyes because of the close similarity to the original version.
Non Payment of Winnings
Refusal to pay winnings can crush your hopes after your dreams come true, especially if your win involves a big amount. Unfortunately, many casinos either blatantly refuse to pay you or ignore your calls and emails. Instead, the casino quotes a clause that gives them a right not to pay in some cases. You’ll be shocked by how many casinos get away with such trickery because of one clause in the terms.
Safety Measures Against Casino Crooks
Online casinos have a lot of fun games and opportunities in store. So, scam sites and online casino crooks shouldn’t shutter your fun. Your role is to stay safe and take precautions to get the best online casino experience. Here are six tips to stay ahead of scammers and security threats.
Use Safe Online Casinos
The first step to online casino safety is to vet online casinos before opening an account. Check whether the casino has all the certifications and licenses needed by the law. A casino that adheres to the laws prioritizes the security of your information and accounts. Failure to do so puts the casino’s reputation at stake and could attract legal claims, an issue legit casinos often avoid.
Only Play at Licensed Sites
Some scam casinos operate without a license, but the casino’s website indicates otherwise. When you visit an online casino, go to the ‘about me’ section, find and save the certificate for reference. If you don’t find one, ask customer service for the license number and check its authenticity. But don’t register at a casino that refuses to display or show you a license.
Understand the Terms and Conditions
Online casino terms and conditions contain loads of information about how the casino conducts business. Vital information includes bonus claims, how to deposit and withdraw funds, and how the casino handles your data. Unfortunately, scammers know how to be shady in the terms and conditions because many users don’t read the terms. So, check the terms and avoid casinos with shady terms.
Don’t Download Unknown Software
Don’t download anything that pops on your screen when you are on an online platform. You could end up with a virus or other malware that ruins your device or asks you to pay up or lose your files. Instead, do due diligence when a legit site requires you to download software. For example, read reviews, call customer service, and ask why you should download the software.
Be Careful With Your Bank Account Details
Many established online casinos offer several payment options —prepaid cards, bank transfers, debit, and credit cards. The payment methods are secure, but the problem occurs when your details fall in the hands of crooks who wipe off your account. Preferably set up a separate account for online casino games and use a card that limits the amount you spend.
Don’t Be Fooled With Exaggerated Bonuses
Many casinos offer sign-up incentives and welcome bonuses to make online casinos more attractive. However, such incentives are only profitable with legit casinos. Scam online casinos lure you with various bonuses that sound too good to be true. The total you’ll pay for such is more than the bonuses’ worth. So, check the terms and conditions of bonus rules before you sign up for one.
If in trouble seek help.
If you’re an online casino enthusiast, it’s important to be aware of the common scams that exist in the industry. From fake websites to rigged games, there are plenty of ways that criminals can try to take advantage of unsuspecting players.
One way to protect yourself from these scams is to stay up-to-date with the Interpol blue notice list. This list contains information about individuals and organizations that are wanted by law enforcement agencies around the world for various crimes, including those related to online casino fraud.
By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy your favourite games with peace of mind.
Conclusion
The different online scams shouldn’t scare you off because laws exist to protect you. Besides, you can still take precautions to stay safe. First, register and play with a reliable casino that shows concern for your welfare. Then, watch the above security measures to keep your money safe from online thieves, and you’ll be good to go.