NGB Issues Public Warning on Illegal Betting Activity
South Africa’s National Gambling Board (NGB) has issued a public warning about a sharp rise in illegal online gambling platforms and counterfeit betting applications targeting local punters ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Pretoria-based regulator said the excitement surrounding major sporting events is often exploited by criminals to promote fraudulent betting schemes.
How Illegal Operators Target Punters
In a statement released on Monday, the NGB noted that global sporting events such as the upcoming World Cup traditionally lead to higher betting activity. Criminal groups reportedly use that surge to distribute fake betting platforms designed to deceive consumers.
Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana said illegal operators rely on a range of digital channels to reach victims.
“Once payment is made, victims either lose communication with the operators or are pressured into making further payments,” Dukwana said. “The illegal operators mainly target victims through Facebook advertisements, WhatsApp messages, Telegram groups, SMS push links, fake social media pages and mobile applications downloaded outside official app stores.”
The NGB warned that these schemes often mimic legitimate bookmakers by copying names, logos and branding linked to reputable operators. Users may see inflated account balances or fabricated wins after depositing funds, but are then asked to pay additional fees—such as taxes, charges or so-called verification costs—before withdrawing.
In many cases, once those extra payments are requested, the fake platforms disappear or customers are blocked from further contact.
How to Identify Licensed Operators
To help consumers distinguish lawful services from scams, the NGB outlined several features of legitimate South African gambling operators:
- They operate exclusively through official websites with registered domain names;
- They clearly display provincial gambling board licence information;
- They do not require taxes or fees to be paid before releasing winnings;
- They do not guarantee winnings or promise unrealistic profits.
Guidance for Consumers During the World Cup
The regulator urged consumers to adopt cautious betting practices, especially during the World Cup period. Key advice included verifying operator legitimacy, avoiding suspicious links and not sharing sensitive personal information.
The NGB reminded the public that most licensed bookmakers operate through their official websites and do not distribute services via push notifications or unauthorised apps.
Illegal gambling proceeds obtained by unlicensed operators may be confiscated by authorities. However, the NGB warned that scam victims generally have no legal route to recover lost funds. The situation also creates compliance and reputational risks for legitimate businesses that may inadvertently support or promote rogue platforms.
The board directed businesses and consumers to the verified gambling operators portal, which maintains an up-to-date list of licensed operators in South Africa. The portal was launched earlier this year to help combat illegal gambling activity.
The NGB recently responded to complaints about the portal, with some users raising concerns over confusion and accuracy. The regulator invited stakeholder feedback to improve the platform’s usefulness and reliability.
Problem Gambling Risks During the Tournament
Beyond fraud concerns, the NGB highlighted the potential for increased problem gambling during the 2026 World Cup. Families and employers were urged to watch for warning signs such as chasing losses, borrowing money to gamble, neglecting work or social responsibilities, and using gambling as a coping mechanism.
Responsible gambling guidance emphasised setting betting budgets, avoiding gambling under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and treating betting as entertainment rather than a source of income.
“This sporting season can escalate risky gambling behaviour,” Dukwana said. “We encourage the public to remain vigilant and to educate family members, friends and communities about these scams. Illegal gambling platforms not only defraud consumers but also operate outside South African gambling laws and regulations.”
The NGB is not alone in raising concerns ahead of the tournament. The KSA also emphasised gambling advertising rules in the month leading up to the event, reiterating existing prohibitions including a ban on untargeted advertising and tighter limits on sports sponsorship.