South Africa’s National Gambling Board (NGB) has launched a public awareness campaign ahead of the 2026 Soccer World Cup, warning consumers about a rise in illegal gambling platforms and fraudulent betting applications targeting sports fans.
The regulator said major sporting events often trigger increased betting activity, creating opportunities for criminals to exploit public interest through scam websites, fake mobile applications and deceptive promotions. The NGB urged consumers to verify operators carefully and approach online betting with caution.
The board also reminded the public that gambling should remain a form of entertainment and warned that excessive participation can lead to financial, social and psychological difficulties.
Regulator Highlights Growing Scam Threat
According to the NGB, scammers frequently pose as legitimate betting operators and attract users with promises of large rewards, guaranteed profits and generous sign-up offers.
The regulator warned: “Members of the public, particularly punters in South Africa, are urged to exercise extreme caution regarding the increasing number of illegal gambling scam platforms operating through fake mobile applications, phishing links, and social media advertisements promising unrealistic winnings and bonuses.”
Officials explained that victims are often persuaded to deposit funds after seeing advertisements on social media, messaging platforms or websites. Once deposits are made, users may see inflated balances or fake winnings displayed on their accounts.
When customers attempt withdrawals, scammers allegedly demand additional payments before releasing funds.
Acting NGB Chief Executive Lungile Dukwana said: “Once payment is made, victims either lose communication with the operators or are pressured into making further payments. 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 board added that some illegal operators imitate licensed bookmakers by copying names, logos and branding elements.
Guidance for South African Bettors
The regulator stressed that licensed bookmakers operate through official websites, display provincial gambling licences and do not demand fees before releasing winnings.
Consumers have been advised to enter website addresses directly into browsers, avoid suspicious links and verify licence details before opening accounts. The board also warned users not to share passwords, one-time pins, identity documents or financial information with unverified operators.
The NGB further noted that unlawful gambling winnings may be confiscated and victims have limited legal recourse to recover losses.
Responsible Gambling Message
Alongside scam warnings, the NGB highlighted the risks of problem gambling during high-profile sporting events and encouraged families to watch for warning signs
Dukwana said: “This sporting season can escalate risky gambling behaviour. 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 board recommends setting spending limits, avoiding gambling during emotional distress and treating betting purely as entertainment. It also highlighted support services and self-exclusion programmes for people experiencing gambling-related harm.
Source:
“National Gambling Board urges safe gambling as fake betting apps rise”, citizen.co.za. Jun 9, 2026
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