Online casinos offer thrilling gameplay and real-money wins, but not all sites play fair. With the rise of online gambling, scam casinos have also increased, targeting unsuspecting players with rigged games, unfair terms and even financial fraud.

So, how do you spot a scam casino before it is too late? In this guide, we will break down the warning signs of rogue casinos, how to protect yourself and where to find safe and legitimate online casinos.

Common Online Casino Scams to Watch Out For

Fraudulent casinos use different tactics to deceive players. Here are some of the most common scams:

  1. Rigged or Unfair Games

How It Works: Some scam casinos offer games that appear normal but have unfair odds or no real chance of winning.

Warning Signs:

  • No mention of licensed game providers (like NetEnt, Microgaming or Evolution Gaming).
  • Unverified RNG (Random Number Generator) fairness.
  • Complaints from players about never winning or frequent, suspicious losses.

How to Avoid It:
Stick to casinos that partner with reputable software providers and display independent RNG audit results.

  1. Delayed or Denied Withdrawals

How It Works: Scam sites make it hard or impossible to withdraw winnings by delaying payments, adding unreasonable verification steps or refusing withdrawals.

Warning Signs:

  • Unclear withdrawal policies or excessive wagering requirements.
  • Casinos suddenly blocking accounts when players try to withdraw.
  • Complaints about never receiving pay outs.

How to Avoid It:
Check a casino’s withdrawal policies and player reviews before depositing money. Licensed casinos always process withdrawals within a reasonable timeframe.

  1. Fake or Unlicensed Casinos

How It Works: Some websites pretend to be real casinos but do not have a valid gambling license. They may take your money and disappear.

Warning Signs:

  • No valid license from authorities like MGA, UKGC, Curacao or South Africa’s NGB.
  • No responsible gambling policies or contact details.
  • Poor website design with broken links or low-quality graphics.

How to Avoid It:
Always check for a valid license number on the casino’s website and verify it on the licensing body’s official website.

  1. Bonus Abuse Scams

How It Works: Scam casinos lure players in with unrealistic bonuses that are impossible to claim due to hidden terms.

Warning Signs:

  • Massive bonus offers (e.g., “Get R10,000 free! No deposit required”).
  • Extremely high wagering requirements (e.g., 100x the bonus).
  • Restrictions that make withdrawing winnings nearly impossible.

How to Avoid It:
Read the bonus terms and conditions carefully and choose casinos with reasonable wagering requirements (typically 30x-40x).

How to Verify if an Online Casino is Safe

To protect yourself, always verify a casino’s legitimacy before signing up. Follow these steps:

  1. Check the License
  • Look for a valid gambling license (UKGC, MGA, Curacao, etc.).
  • Verify the license number on the official regulator’s website.
  1. Read Player Reviews
  • Look for real player feedback on sites like Trustpilot or gambling forums.
  • Avoid casinos with consistent complaints about pay outs or unfair practices.
  1. Test Customer Support
  • A legit casino will have 24/7 live chat, email and phone support.
  • Contact support before signing up. If they are unresponsive, it is a red flag.
  1. Look for Secure Payment Options
  • Trusted casinos use secure banking methods like Visa, Mastercard, Skrill and Bitcoin.
  • Ensure the site has SSL encryption (check for “https://” in the URL).
  1. Check for Fair Games
  • Make sure the casino partners with reputable software providers (e.g., NetEnt, Playtech, Evolution Gaming).
  • Look for RNG certification from independent auditors like eCOGRA.

What to Do If You have Been Scammed by an Online Casino

If you suspect you have been scammed, take action immediately:

1️. Stop Depositing – Do not send more money.
2️. Contact Customer Support – Request your withdrawal and document all communication.
3️. File a Complaint – Report the casino to its licensing authority and review sites.
4️. Warn Other Players – Share your experience on gambling forums and Trustpilot.
5️. Use Chargeback Options – If you deposited via credit card, ask your bank for a chargeback.

FAQ: Avoiding Online Casino Scams

  1. How do I know if an online casino is legit?
    Look for a valid license, secure payment methods and positive player reviews.
  2. Are all new online casinos unsafe?
    Not necessarily, some new casinos are legit. Always check their license and reputation first.
  3. Can I get my money back if a casino scams me?
    It depends. If you used a credit card, you might be able to file a chargeback. Otherwise, reporting the casino to its licensing authority may help.
  4. What is the safest way to deposit at an online casino?
    Use secure payment methods like Visa, Mastercard or trusted e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller). Avoid untraceable methods like Bitcoin unless the casino is well-known.
  5. Are all casinos with big bonuses scams?
    No, but always read the terms. If the bonus sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Final Thoughts

Online casino scams can be devastating, but by staying informed and cautious, you can protect your bankroll and enjoy safe gambling experiences. Stick to licensed, reputable casinos, avoid deals that seem too good to be true and always do your research before signing up.

At CasinoMatch, we only recommend trusted and secure online casinos. Check out our expert reviews to find safe gambling sites with fair games and fast pay outs… so you can play with confidence!