Common bookmaker scams every player should avoid in 2025
With the rapid growth of information technology, countless online bookmakers have emerged to meet the entertainment needs of a large number of players. However, alongside reputable platforms, there are also bookmaker scams that take advantage of inexperienced newcomers to make money through deceitful practices.
So, how can you identify the warning signs of a scam bookmaker, and which platforms should you avoid? Let Premiumsoccertips.net help you uncover the key indicators of scam betting sites and provide a list of fraudulent bookmakers to stay away from in the article below!
What are bookmaker scams?
Finding a trustworthy betting platform is one of the biggest challenges for players, especially beginners. It’s essential to recognize the signs of scam bookmakers to avoid falling victim to fraudulent platforms.
With the rapid rise of new betting sites, some dishonest operators impersonate well-known bookmakers to deceive unsuspecting bettors. These scam sites often use clever tactics and flashy promotions to capture attention and encourage deposits.
Creating a fake betting website is relatively easy due to minimal supervision in the online gambling space, allowing such fraudulent platforms to operate undetected. They exploit players’ trust and enthusiasm with enticing bonuses, exaggerated odds, and too-good-to-be-true offers to lure deposits into their system.
Once players begin betting, these scammers may manipulate outcomes using rigged software or refuse to pay winnings. In many cases, they delay or block withdrawals with various excuses-some even demand additional deposits before processing payouts. Ultimately, accounts get locked, and players lose access to their funds.
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List of some bookmaker scams to be wary of 2025
- K8.cc: Impersonating K8, easy to deposit but difficult to withdraw.
- Vuabai9: Accounts get locked when attempting withdrawals.
- 7BALL: Accounts get locked by default when winning over 100 million USD.
- V868H: Impersonating sponsorship for FC Porto.
- 79bull: Accounts locked, withdrawals not permitted, and the site is at risk of being taken down.
- FCB8: Similar name to FCB88, causing confusion, and impersonating FCB’s partner.
- Win99.com: Prevents withdrawals and locks accounts. Requires a 10% fee of the account balance for verification to unlock the account.
- Win2888 – tinycat99 – onebox63: Frequently blocked by authorities, risk of losing all funds.
- Vnlot88.com: Accounts get locked when winning, with various reasons given, and eventually, the account is permanently banned.
- HappyLuck: Impersonating HappyLuke, but winnings cannot be claimed on this site.
- Bong88.cc: A fake website impersonating bong88.com.
- 855bong.com: When players win bets, they block withdrawals under the pretext of IP conflicts and deduct all deposited funds.
- vbet89.com: Impersonating vbet79.com.
- 12ibet.com: Impersonating 12bet and frequently inaccessible.
- SRTbet.com: Frequently confiscates members’ funds.
- 985365.com: Allows deposits but does not permit withdrawals.
- bv89: Cheating during play and confiscating players’ funds.
- Anto365 – 79sodo: Scams related to winning lottery bets.
- FUN8B: Scams and cheats players, especially those who win big.
- Wl899.com: Impersonates William Hill.
- 2838bet.com: Impersonates sbobet.
- Galaxy555.com: Impersonates Vegas casino.
- www-bong88.com: Impersonating bong88 website.
- Bong68: Engages in fraudulent activities and scams players’ funds.
- M0088: Impersonating M88.
You can refer to: Top 5 betting site free bets when you sign up as a new member
Signs to identify unreliable betting sites
With the rapid growth of online betting, countless platforms have appeared to meet players’ entertainment needs. However, this boom has also led to the rise of fraudulent and unreliable betting sites. Below are key signs that help new players identify scam bookmakers before losing money.
1. Only supports the local language
Most reputable online betting platforms in the world are operated by international companies headquartered in developed countries. Therefore, legitimate sites usually support multiple languages, such as English, Japanese, French, Korean, Thai, and Malay, to cater to players worldwide.
If a website only supports local language, it’s a strong indicator of a fake or unlicensed bookmaker. These sites often lack regulatory oversight and can easily disappear with players’ funds.
2. Uses mobile numbers for customer support
A legitimate international betting platform never uses personal mobile numbers for customer service. Reputable bookmakers provide official landline numbers or verified contact channels in each market for transparency.
If you see a betting site that uses only mobile numbers (especially local SIM numbers), it’s a major red flag. Avoid depositing any money on such platforms.
3. Only accepts mobile card Top-Ups
Reliable online bookmakers offer diverse and secure payment options, including internet banking, ATM… If a betting site only accepts mobile phone card deposits, it’s a clear sign of a scam operation. Such transactions are untraceable and often used to defraud players.
4. Promises unrealistic winning rates
No legitimate bookmaker can guarantee a 90–100% winning rate. Betting outcomes depend on skill, analysis, and a bit of luck. Platforms that promise guaranteed wins or “risk-free profits” are deliberately misleading you.
True online betting requires strategy, discipline, and experience – not false promises.
5. Lacks a clear business address
Trustworthy bookmakers always disclose their registered office and operating license, often based in regions like the Philippines, Malta, or the Isle of Man, where online gambling is legally regulated.
If a betting site doesn’t publish its business address or license information, it’s likely unregistered and unsafe. Never deposit money into such platforms.
6. Poor or slow customer support
Customer support is a hallmark of a professional betting platform. Reputable sites offer 24/7 live chat, multilingual support, and quick responses to any issues related to deposits, withdrawals, or gameplay.
Fraudulent websites, on the other hand, typically respond slowly – or not at all – once you deposit money. Some even disable support channels entirely when players request withdrawals.
7. No live casino or real dealers
Top-tier bookmakers invest heavily in Live Casino features with real dealers to ensure transparency and fairness. These games are streamed directly from professional studios and cannot be manipulated.
Scam betting sites often skip this feature, replacing real dealers with computer-simulated games that can be easily rigged. If a site doesn’t offer genuine Live Casino games, consider it a potential scam and stay away.
The consequences of betting on bookmaker scams
While the online betting industry continues to grow with numerous reputable platforms, fraudulent bookmakers still exist, exploiting players and causing serious personal and financial harm. Below are some of the key consequences that players may face when engaging with these scam sites.
1. Unfair financial losses
One of the most common and severe consequences is the unjust loss of funds. Scam platforms can suspend or lock player accounts without notice or reason, even if no rules have been violated.
In many cases, players are prevented from withdrawing their winnings. Fraudulent sites often demand additional deposits under the guise of “verification” or “system maintenance,” making it impossible for players to reclaim their remaining balance.
These issues occur frequently and can completely ruin a bettor’s experience. New players who don’t research carefully before signing up are especially vulnerable to being scammed and losing their money unfairly.
2. Legal consequences
It’s important to note that gambling laws vary by country. Engaging in unlicensed or fraudulent betting sites can result in financial loss and potential legal consequences.
If authorities investigate illegal gambling activities, individuals found to be participating-especially those wagering large sums-may face criminal charges. Even small-scale participants could still be subject to penalties or probation.
In more serious cases involving high-value bets or the use of electronic devices for fraudulent gambling, offenders may face imprisonment and substantial fines.
3. Risk of personal information theft
Fraudulent betting websites pose significant data security risks. Since these platforms lack proper encryption or security systems, personal details such as banking information, identification data, and account credentials are highly vulnerable to theft.
Players who cannot distinguish between legitimate and fake websites risk having their entire betting account or financial data compromised. Scam websites are also known for unstable servers, sudden crashes, and poor protection, making it easy for hackers to exploit user information.
To safeguard your privacy, always verify the site’s security certifications and licensing details before registering or depositing money.
4. Loss of trust and confidence
Falling victim to a scam bookmaker often leads to a complete loss of trust in the online betting industry. Many players become discouraged and hesitant to participate again after facing financial loss or legal threats.
In reality, there are still many licensed and transparent bookmakers that operate legally and prioritize player protection. By dedicating time to proper research and choosing verified, reputable platforms, bettors can enjoy a safe, fair, and rewarding betting experience without unnecessary risks.
FAQs about bookmaker scams
Are all betting sites scams?
No. While scams exist, most online bookmakers are legitimate and operate under licenses and regulations. Even well-known brands can have occasional disputes or service issues, but that doesn’t automatically make them fraudulent. Always check licensing, reviews, and contact channels before depositing.
What are common signs of a fake betting website?
Red flags include: a broken or poorly designed website, clearly fake or inconsistent odds, no visible gambling license, incorrect or missing customer-support information, limited payment methods (e.g., only mobile card top-ups), and contact details that use personal mobile numbers instead of official lines.
What tactics do bookmaker scams typically use?
Common strategies include refusing to pay winning bets, delaying or blocking withdrawals with excuses, demanding extra deposits for “verification,” closing accounts without justification, and using rigged or manipulated games that unfairly alter outcomes.
What should I do if I’ve been scammed?
Recovering funds can be difficult, but try these steps:
- Contact the site’s customer support and keep records of all communications.
- Gather evidence (screenshots, transaction records, chat logs).
- File a complaint with the site’s licensing authority (if one exists).
- Report the incident on reputable review sites and forums so other players are warned.
- Consider seeking legal advice if large sums are involved.
Conclusion
Understanding bookmaker scams and the warning signs helps you avoid untrustworthy platforms and protect your funds. Take time to research licenses, read reviews, and verify payment and support channels before registering. There are many reputable bookmakers out there-choose carefully and bet responsibly.
See also: Top 5 bookmaker apps: An exciting destination for sportspeople
