Here’s How You Can Tell The Sportsbook Provider You’ve Signed Up To Is Legit

In this day and age where new sportsbook operators seem to come out of the woodwork on a daily basis, finding one that’s legit can be an overwhelming experience. With the promise of lucrative returns on the line, players can just settle for any platform that comes along. What’s more, there are plenty of new no deposit casinos for UK players available at NoDeposit365.co.uk that also offer sportsbook services to their customers.

Fret not; we’ve compiled a list of how you can determine whether or not a sportsbook is actually legit. Remember, winning a bet should never come at the expense of your safety. As such, you must keep in mind the tips in our guide the next time you decide to sign up for a sportsbook platform.

1. License

Any reputable sportsbook operator must be in possession of a valid license before it can operate in a state. This certifies that the sportsbook has been licensed by the appropriate authorities, ensuring it does not conduct any harmful gaming practices such as misleading clients with wagering requirements or offering bogus bonuses. Sticking to licensed sportsbooks will help you keep your finances safe and out of harm’s way.

Prior to signing up to a sportsbook, you should scroll to the bottom of their homepage to check if there is the logo of the awarding licensing body, such as the UK Gambling Commission. Unfortunately, logos are easy to fake, so be sure to click on the logo’s licensing number, as it should legitimately redirect you to the website of the licensing body. Alternatively, you can search for the licensing number on the awarding body’s site.

2. Safe Gaming Practices

Having a valid license also ensures that sportsbook operators comply with their rules and regulations, ensuring their standards are meant and kept. This includes complying to regular audits from third party bodies such as eCOGRA or IBAS, who specialize in the inspection and testing of online gambling software and systems. 

If you see a logo for one of these reputable testing authorities than you can rest easy knowing that the sportsbook as well as its software and service providers are all compliant. Legitimate sportsbook operators will also need to employ an independent body to handle all alternative disputes such as complaints or financial claims. 

3. Advanced Security

A reliable sportsbook operator will ensure that all your personal information is kept away from prying eyes by employing Secure Socket Layers. The SSL works by creating an encrypted link between the sportsbook’s server and the browser, safeguarding all financial transactions as well as data from being intercepted. This means that whatever information you pass on to the sportsbook will remain private.

Another way to see whether the sportsbook operator’s site is safe to use is by checking if there is a padlock symbol at the start of the address bar and if the address begins with “https.” This means that the site is secure and that any communication between your browser and the website’s server cannot be intercepted.

4. Additional Measures

While SSL technology does a fine job of keeping your information safe, some sportsbooks go the extra mile by making use of password-protected servers and firewalls. This offers all your sensitive data an additional layer of protection. Not only is this good for the user but also for the operator, as these types of measures will help ensure they maintain a good reputation. Try looking for the logos of reputable security brands such as Thawte or McAfee so you can ensure you are in safe hands.

5. Do Your Research

One surefire way to gauge how a sportsbook works and if it is ultimately right for you is by conducting your own research. Start off by typing the sportsbook’s name into a search engine and seeing if any suspicious or incriminating articles come up. If your search comes up clear, then head to the review sites to see what current or previous users have to say about the sportsbook’s services. Here you will find first-hand accounts of the platform’s security, payment methods, poor customer service, etc., allowing you to flag any unsavory comments.

6. Championing Safe Gambling Practices

At the end of the day, we all know that the main priority of any sportsbook is to churn out profit. However, some reputable companies also champion safe gambling practices by donating to organizations such as GamCare, GameStop, and BeGambleAware, helping to fund research as well as treatment options for those individuals who may be experiencing gambling-related harm. A GamCare certification on a sportsbook’s site also means that the platform has gone above and beyond to ensure that players rights are being protected.

7. Swift Payouts

If you are lucky enough to win a bet, then you want to be able to have your earnings immediately. As such, you want to make sure the sportsbook you decide to sign up with is able to process your payout in a matter of minutes, especially with today’s technology. If you are ever in a situation where your payouts keep getting delayed, then take this as a sign to take your money elsewhere, as more often than not, this situation would mean that the platform is trying to steal your earnings. Make sure to read the terms and conditions of your bet carefully, as it wouldn’t be the first time that a sportsbook operator has used them to justify not paying out winnings.