From identity theft to malicious malware scams, online casino expert Nicholas Crouch from Scams.info has provided the following top tips to stay safe while you play:
- Avoid phishing scams by keeping your information close to your chest
What does it look like? A phishing scam usually takes the guise of an email, text, or phone call that appears to be coming from a legitimate source. This encourages the receiver to enter their personal details or engage in conversation that leads to a scam.
How to avoid it: “A good hard and fast rule is to never give out private, personal information. This includes information such as your bank details or passwords, no company should ever be asking for these. Also, do not reply to text messages or emails if you can’t be sure they’re genuine.“
- Keep your identity safe by checking bank statements regularly
What does it look like? Usually using stolen credit card or bank details, the scammer takes on the identity of the victim and uses their money to spend online. This process can happen very quickly when it comes to online casino scams, with the scammer depositing the card’s balance into their own account and then vanishing.
How to avoid it: Nicholas Crouch says: “Don’t share your personal or financial information with anyone. This includes never writing your banking details down. Also, if you lose or have your card stolen contact your bank immediately to freeze the card. Check your bank statements regularly and keep an eye out for any suspicious transactions that you don’t recognise. This can help you realise quickly if someone has access to your account details and you can then alert your bank and get your card blocked.”
- Stay malware-savvy with antivirus software, and avoid false emails and attachments
What does it look like? Usually malware comes as an attachment to an email. Once opened, this information-stealing software can access your computer and details.
How to avoid it: “Don’t click on any links if you’re not sure they are coming from a legitimate source. And most importantly, don’t download anything sent to you via email or text. It can also be a good idea to have antivirus software installed, this will scan for malware and protect you from phishing attacks. Don’t download unregulated casino apps and always check for reviews from trusted sources and proper licensing… for UK players this means looking for a licence from the UK Gambling Commission.”
- Keep an eye out for scam casino websites that ask you to enter details
What does it look like? A scam casino website is likely to look very similar to a legitimate site and may ask you to enter your details in a similar manner. At Christmas, this could take the form of a fake free online gift card or offer. However, instead of making a legitimate purchase, you could be unwittingly providing financial and personal information to a scammer.
How to avoid it: “Although possible the risk of being scammed by a fake casino site is not that high. This is because it takes a lot of effort on the part of a scammer to build a website that can fool people. Pay attention to the design and functionality and, although not always the sign of a fraudulent site, it will likely be poor. Another huge giveaway is no way of contacting the company.”
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