Betting Site > Safe Betting Sites

Safe Betting Sites

Written by:

David Kane,

Bookmakers reviewer

Fact checked by:

Philipp Lahm,

Fußballspieler

Last Updated: Oct 22, 2024

You’ll agree that advanced technology has made life easy. The online space, however, is a snare trap for the unwary; just a misstep, and it’s over. That’s why navigating the world of online betting requires a focus on safety.

On this page, we’ll show you how to differentiate between safe and scam betting sites. We have also shortlisted the safest sportsbooks in your country. We will discuss their security features and explain why they stand out from rival brands.

It’s not about who said what they said. Our team of experts has gone through the ins and outs of safe betting and, in the end, provides tips based on their experience. Let’s jump in.

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Table of contents

Playfast
Svenplay
BetFinal
Bruno

Playfast

Play Fast Casino sports bonuses The first thing we checked as soon as we stepped into Playfast was its license. We scrolled to the footer and confirmed CW Marketing B.V., a Curacao-licensed gaming company, operates it.

SSL is a basic necessity, so we look beyond that. We went through the bookie’s KYC policy. To summarise it all, your information is safe.

To prevent identity theft, the operator must verify your ID, residence, and proof of payment. German is among the 4 language options available; if you prefer Dutch, use Google Translate to understand the T&Cs.

The payments department is also as safe as the Bank of England. Here, you’ll come across 15+ secure banking methods such as Visa, Jeton, and paysafecard. Bitcoin and other popular digital currencies are also available.

Playfast also prioritizes responsible gambling, offering tools such as self-exclusion and time-out options. It also offers tools that will help you avoid betting addiction.

The bookmaker offers a wide range of sports across an array of international and local leagues, such as Eredivisie, KNVB Beker, and Eerste Divisie for football. Overall, its primary focus remains on ensuring a safe and secure betting experience for its users.

Svenplay

Svenplay Casino Review Founded in 2019, Svenplay is a legitimate betting site. Its operator is L.C.S Limited, an MGA-licensed company.

The bookie has a strict privacy policy that guarantees the safety of your personal and financial data. Additionally, it employs robust firewalls and fraud prevention systems to further enhance security.

We tested Svenplay on several browsers. Apparently, it only works in selected ones such as Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. These browsers use AES-256 bit encryption, which meets the operator’s requirement of 128-bit encryption.

The banking page features top payment methods known to provide secure transactions. They include Skrill, Flexepin, and Bank Transfer. There are no cryptocurrencies here.

We went through the terms and conditions page and confirmed there are no unclear statements. The only drawback is that the sportsbook only supports 4 languages, including German and English. If you want Dutch, consider Google Translate.

Have questions about the bookie’s data protection policy? Contact the Svenplay’s Data Protection Officer (DPO) via email ([email protected]).

There are over 35 sports to bet on here. This includes events under Eredivisie, where you can use the bookie’s early payout and bore draw features.

BetFinal

Betfinal Casino Review Owned by Final Enterprises N.V., Betfinal is a Curacao-licensed betting site. It features over 125 sports (including esports), with 10,000+ monthly events to bet on. You can wager on local events under various NL leagues, such as Eredivisie.

Established in 2013, the bookmaker guarantees a secure betting environment by using advanced SSL encryption. Notably, the bookie can perform security checks at any time. Eluding these checks has negative consequences, including permanent closure of your account.

We went through this bookie's terms and conditions, and everything is well-explained. Only 8 languages are available, though. This may make it a bit difficult for bettors who prefer Dutch to understand the T&Cs.

Only reliable payment methods are available. They include MuchBetter and Skrill. You can also use cryptocurrencies such as Litecoin and Bitcoin.

Betfinal is committed to responsible gambling, offering self-exclusion, self-assessment tests, and deposit limits. It also provides links to resourceful websites including GamCare, Gamanon, and Gambling Therapy.

Say you’re no longer interested in betting at this gambling website. In such a case, Betfinal will perform secure deletion. This policy ensures only the best practices are followed when erasing your data.

Bruno

Bruno Betting Site Established in 2021, Bruno is from Flowerinas SRL. This is a legitimate company with a valid permit from Costa Rica.

The website has a classy, user-friendly design that would not cause any inconvenience in browsing it. It accepts about 7 languages, including French, German, and Spanish. Dutch is not on the list.

Bruno uses SSL encryption. In addition, it supports several well-reputed payment options. You can use Mastercard, Bitcoin, and Payz. Bitcoin and Ethereum are also available.

Customer support at Bruno Sportsbook is available 24/7, both on live chat and via email ([email protected]). Feel free to direct all queries, including security-related concerns to them. The support team is well-informed and responsive; expect clear answers and prompt feedback.

Over to the sports section, you can filter events that you’d like to bet on based on nation. For example, select the Netherlands if you’d like to bet on events under local leagues such as Eredivisie.

How We Rank Safe Betting Sites

It would be unfair if we just picked any betting site we came across. We must go to town before recommending safe sportsbooks. Here’s a quick look of what we consider:

1

Tight security

Our team dives deep into the security protocols of each betting site. We verify the presence of valid security certificates and ensure that robust firewalls and encryption tools are in place. Additionally, we investigate the bookie’s history for any security breaches, only recommending those with a proven track record of safeguarding player data.

2

Safe banking options

We meticulously review the banking methods available in each sportsbook. This includes checking for well-known and trusted options like credit cards, debit cards, cryptocurrencies, and online banking. We also test the withdrawal process ourselves to ensure it’s swift and hassle-free, providing a seamless financial experience for bettors.

3

Clear bonus terms

Transparency in bonus terms is crucial. We analyze the bonus rules in each sportsbook to ensure they are straightforward and fair. Bookmakers with ambiguous or misleading bonus terms are excluded from our recommendations. We prioritize clarity and fairness for our readers.

4

Reliable customer support

Customer service is a vital aspect of our evaluation. We test the responsiveness and helpfulness of the support teams by posing detailed questions about security measures and data protection policies. Only bookmakers with knowledgeable and prompt customer service agents make it to our recommended list.

5

Licensing

A valid licence from a respected authority is a strong indicator of a site’s reliability and trustworthiness. We ensure that each betting site is licensed by reputable regulatory bodies such as the Malta Gaming Authority (more on this later). These licences guarantee that the betting site operates under strict regulations, ensuring fair play, security, and responsible betting.

Encryption

This is the bedrock of internet safety for leading bookmakers. It ensures information transmitted between you and the betting site is transformed into something unintelligible.
Leading bookies utilize the most recent SSL technology, commonly used by banks. This way, your personal and financial information is safeguarded against hackers.

Firewalls

Extra security exists between the bookmaker's servers and risks on the internet in the form of firewalls. Firewalls check the incoming and outgoing traffic in search of malicious activities and unauthorized access.
The best sportsbooks use extremely advanced firewall systems to secure the servers and, thus, your data. This ensures that your entire session is continuous without hang-ups.

Fraud prevention

Online fraud prevention measures help bookies maintain the integrity of any online betting site. These include an array of advanced algorithms and monitoring systems that may raise suspicion of fraud.
By doing so, top sportsbooks secure not only their operations but also their users against fraudulent activities. This creates a safe betting environment.

Security audits

Regular security audits help locate and remedy weak spots in a sportsbook. Independent third-party organizations perform these audits to ensure that the site adheres to industry standards and best practices on matters of security and integrity.
The safest online betting sites are frequently audited for security. This makes them trustworthy, giving bettors confidence when betting online.

2-Factor authentication

Think of 2FA as having a bouncer for your online betting account. First, there is the easy way in: by typing in your username and password. Then, this bouncer requests a secret code sent to your phone or generated via an app.
Without it, nobody gets in, even if they know your password. It's an extra layer of security to keep your account safe and sound.

Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB)

The Curaçao Gaming Control Board is among the most common licensing bodies. It requires that operators employ SSL encryption to keep players' data private and ensure safe and secure transactions.

At the same time, their dispute resolution process isn't as challenging when compared with other regulators. So, it would be good to check user feedback regarding the site's reputation.

The GCB mainly focuses on offering a fair gaming environment. However, it does not practice some of the strict vigilance others do in their jurisdictions.

Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)

The Malta Gaming Authority is one of the most respected regulators. This is majorly because of the stringent nature of the regulatory requirements it lays down.

For instance, it demands that bookies use high levels of security, such as encryption and auditing, to protect players.

On 20th January 2023, the authority outlined that all licensees must submit information security reports. This applies especially in cases of any breach that affects bettors.

The MGA also provides full responsible betting and dispute resolution. This means an MGA license is an assurance of a great deal of trust in the safety and protection of your bets.

Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA)

Founded in October 2000, the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority is reputable thanks to its solid regulatory framework. The jurisdiction is perceived as keen on law observation.

Notably, the regulator follows strict security procedures in the protection of players' personal and financial information. GRA-licensed betting sites undergo periodic audits to ensure that standards for fair play are met.

Transparency is at the forefront of this authority's actions and a commitment to player protection. It follows Gibraltar's data protection law, which comprises the Data Protection Act 2004 and the General Data Protection Regulation Act 2019.

Kahnawake Gaming Commission

Established in 1996, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission is one of the longest-running online gambling regulators.

It requires operators to have contractual relationships with bettors, with reasonable and fair terms.

To top it off, operators with a Kahnawake license must provide mechanisms that allow bettors to limit their sessions. The regulator also requires its licensees to protect the confidentiality of all members.

There is a detailed dispute resolution service to solve your complaints promptly and fairly. Remember that if you share your complaints with the media or discussion forums, it will jeopardize the commission's ability to help you.

Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC)

The Alderney Gambling Control Commission is considered a reliable regulator of online gambling. It follows high standards regarding integrity and fairness.

The Commission has the MoU with the Malta Gaming Authority. Both regulators have the same values and objectives. This includes crime prevention, protecting the vulnerable population from problem gambling, and consumer protection.

In 2023, the Commission entered into the MoU with the Bailiwick of Guernsey Data Protection Authority to enhance data protection measures. That means bookies with an AGCC license have to set up advanced security measures that will protect your data.

Table of contents

Responsible Gambling at Safe Betting Sites
Personal limits
Reality checks and session limits
Cool-off periods
Self-exclusion options
Supportive resources
Keeping your betting in check

Responsible Gambling at Safe Betting Sites

The good thing about licensed betting sites is that they have strict regulations put in place, with a focus on responsible gambling. This code ensures you have some important tools and resources available to ensure safe betting.

Below are some of the major responsible betting features provided on these platforms:

Personal limits

You can set personal deposit limits, bet limits, and loss limits before starting to bet. Taking proactive steps helps you to stay in control of the number of bets placed. It also helps you do so responsibly.

Reality checks and session limits

To help you keep track of time, many bookies provide reality checks that will tell you how long you have been betting at given intervals. At the same time, session limits temporarily lock your account. They allow you to take breaks from betting.

Cool-off periods

If you think you are getting off-track, cool-off periods give you a small break from betting. You may turn this feature on for hours or days. As its name implies, it allows you to step back and look at your betting pattern.

Self-exclusion options

If you need to take a longer break, self-exclusion tools allow you to temporarily block access to your account. This would be necessary if you feel you must step away from betting for a certain period, usually 6 months or even a year.

Supportive resources

Aside from the tools already built into the platform, online bookmakers offer a variety of support agencies and services. These agencies provide confidential advice and counseling in a trusting atmosphere during difficult times.

Keeping your betting in check

To ensure you’re in control over your betting behavior, safe bookmakers address the following issues on their responsible gambling pages:

Do you often get irritated when you lose and try to recoup your losses?
Are you betting more frequently than you had decided was your limit?
Are you borrowing money to bet?

Answering these questions may provide an outlook on your betting. If you recognize any disturbing patterns, the responsible gambling tools and articles on these sportsbooks will be helpful.

Bitcoin

Cryptocurrencies are legal in the Netherlands and several other countries, and Bitcoin remains the rockstar of safe online payments. Due to its genuinely decentralized nature, it guarantees anonymity from prying eyes for your transactions.

The underpinning technology for Bitcoin, blockchain, makes tampering with your funds nearly impossible for hackers. That means you should be able to bet online knowing your financial details are safe.

Transactions in Bitcoins are also quick and across borders, making it a convenient alternative for any Dutch bettor.

While it screams speed and privacy, Bitcoin is only available in certain betting sites. Crypto-friendly bookies are not as widespread as standard fiat-only sportsbooks.

Trustly

Founded in 2008, Trustly is a superhero when it comes to online banking payments. It's directly connected to your bank account, hence guaranteeing speed and safety in your transaction. But how safe, you ask?

It uses TLS 1.2 encryption for all incoming connections, and 2048-bit keys with P256. This makes it as safe as Fort Knox when it comes to your financial details. Besides that, it uses 7 firewall layers and hardware and software token Multi-Factor Authentication (including Totp).

The payment method has vulnerability detection tools that help in conducting regular software updates. Its security features are further enhanced by cryptographically signing of source code changes.

And did we mention Trustly is ISO-certified? Not only that, it has passed all penetration tests conducted by independent agencies. It also boasts valid certificates for approved data protection and payment system standards.

Paysafecard

Paysafecard is a more superior pre-paid option, considering the simplicity of it all for the security-conscious individual. Literally, you can buy a Paysafecard voucher with cash then use the credit on the voucher without revealing personal details.

Also, you don’t have to disclose your bank information, which makes it an excellent choice when it comes to safe betting. It’s as easy as keying in that 16-digit PIN, and you're ready to rock.

Paysafecard offers a mobile application for voucher management, too. It’s convenient and may be ideal for Dutch bettors who want their betting transactions to be discreet.

Neteller

Founded in 1999, Neteller is a veteran e-wallet. For security, it uses 256-bit encryption and multiple firewalls. To top it off, it uses security code verification (CV2/CVV) to safeguard your transactions.

Like that’s not enough, Neteller features device fingerprinting, personalizing the login process. It also includes transaction velocity controls for assessment and risk scoring.

Further, this banking method offers real-time transaction monitoring. It also performs BIN/IP checking to determine if it’s really you accessing the account.

Notably, this payment method strongly bonds with leading verification systems globally. This ensures you get first-rate fraud protection and online payment security.

iDEAL

iDEAL is certainly the sweetheart of Dutch online payments, transferring money easily and securely directly from your bank account. It uses all of the security measures of your bank for heavy encryption and secure authentication.

With iDEAL, you are not under any obligation to share your card information. This minimizes the risk of data theft when transacting at online sportsbooks.

This banking method features the iDEAL QR, managed by iDEAL Partners. This means that only approved businesses and systems can create iDEAL QR codes, and only certified apps can scan them. This setup ensures that iDEAL QR is just as secure as the regular iDEAL payment method.

iDEAL also supports instant transactions so that you can bet without extra delays. Its wide acceptance among Dutch betting sites simply makes it an ideal option for the local bettor.

Browse all iDeal betting sites

Risks of Unsafe Betting Sites

Venturing into the world of online betting can be thrilling, but beware of the lurking dangers of unsafe betting sites. Here’s a rundown of the risks you should watch out for:

Financial nightmares

Imagine hitting the jackpot on an online sports betting site only to find out you can’t withdraw your winnings. Some dubious bookies will string you along and refuse to pay out, leaving you frustrated and empty-handed. Always check for reliable payment methods and prompt withdrawal policies to avoid these financial nightmares.

Identity theft

To cyber thieves, your personal and financial data is like gold. Poor encryption probably characterizes unsafe betting sites, and this might mean your data is somewhat easy for hackers to steal. Opt only for licensed and regulated bookies that apply encryption mechanisms to keep your information safe.

Unfair odds

Ever feel like the odds are always against you? At unregulated betting sites, they probably are. They could rig the games (if you’re a casino fanatic) or offer unfair odds; there's just about no way you can win. Reputable sports betting sites get audited for fairness so you can have a decent chance of winning.

Poor customer support

Need help with a bet or some sort of technical issue? Good luck getting an answer from an unsafe betting site. Reputable online sportsbooks provide responsive customer support via live chat, email, or even by phone. Don't get burned when your money is on the line.

Lack of responsible gambling tools

Safe online betting sites will give you options to approach responsible gambling, including self-exclusion and setting deposit limits. Unsafe sites usually do not offer these features. That means you’re likely to get into problem gambling.

How to Spot an Unsafe Betting Site

Navigating the exciting world of online sports betting requires you to keep your wits about you. Here is how to identify an unsafe bookmaker and ensure you play it safe:

1

License check

One of the first things to look for is whether or not the sportsbook is licensed. Licensing information should be at the bottom of the home page.

Be wary of offshore bookmakers that possess licenses from areas such as Curaçao. Some of those might be decent, while others could be utterly untrustworthy, attempting to get by on the cheap.
A reputable bookie will have an unmistakable license that is respected. This will ensure that payoffs are always timely and play is fair.

2

Read the terms and conditions

Go detective on their terms and conditions. Look for those red flags: obscure wording, misspellings, and/or hidden fees.
A good sportsbook will have terms that are easy to understand – written by attorneys. If you get that ‘something-does-not-smell-right’ feeling, or it's way too complicated, then trust your instincts and proceed with caution.

3

Look for secure payment options

Safe betting sites offer secure payment methods. If you only see some shady options available, or if the website does not use encryption technology, look for that padlock icon in the URL; it's a warning sign. Go with sportsbooks that offer reliable and local banking methods like credit cards, e-wallets, or cryptocurrencies.

4

Check for user reviews

Always check what other punters are saying about the sportsbook on review sites like Trustpilot. Pay attention to the negative feedback given. If there are too many complaints about security, that’s a red flag.

5

Use an antivirus

When looking for new sportsbooks, it's important to have antivirus or malware protection. These tools can help identify potentially unsafe sites. While this is useful for any online activity, it's especially crucial when you’re unsure about a sportsbook’s credibility.

6

Responsible gambling features

Safe online sportsbooks promote responsible gambling. They often offer tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options, as well as links to support organizations. These features demonstrate a strong commitment to member safety and well-being, making the site a trustworthy choice.

Safe Betting Tips

Ready to dive into the thrilling world of online betting? Hold your horses! We’ve put together a list of tips to keep your betting escapades safe and sound. Follow these golden rules to dodge common pitfalls that even seasoned bettors can stumble upon.

Craft a unique password

When you sign up with an online sportsbook, whip up a strong password that’s harder to crack than a Dutch cookie. Mix upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using your birthday or any obvious details. Remember to change that password every few months and keep it a secret.

Embrace two-factor authentication

Some betting sites offer two-factor authentication to put your account behind a double lock. You’ll need to enter a code sent to your phone or email each time you log in. Sure, it might slow you down a bit, but that extra layer of security will let you rest easy, especially if your account has a hefty balance.

Choose secure payment methods

When it comes to funding your betting fun, think crypto as it’s a secure way to send funds straight from your wallet to the sportsbook—no middlemen involved. Typing out your card details on a public computer? Not the wisest choice. Stick with crypto or e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller for a safer experience.

Verify emails before clicking

If an email pops into your inbox with tempting offers from your bookie, do a little detective work first. Make sure it’s from a legitimate source—scammers love to impersonate sportsbooks to snag your sensitive info. Better safe than sorry.

Master your bankroll management

Set a budget and stick to it, and only bet with money you can afford to lose. Avoid using borrowed funds or money needed for the essentials—your rent and groceries come first. Assign a portion as your base unit (like 1% of your budget), and you’ll be on your way to responsible betting bliss.

Beware of ‘guaranteed’ winners

If someone claims they can sell you winning picks with a guaranteed return, it’s time to raise the alarm. Even pros only win about 55% of the time. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Do your research before following any handicapper; credibility is key.

Pros

Responsible gambling tools
Transparent terms and conditions
Strict privacy policies
A wide range of secure payment methods
Advanced security features for player protection.

Cons

Rigorous verification process
Potential withdrawal delays due to security checks,

Summary

When betting online, safety is crucial. The risks of using unsafe betting sites are significant, including financial losses, identity theft, and legal troubles.

To help you navigate this landscape, we’ve outlined essential criteria for identifying secure sportsbooks. This includes valid licensing, reliable payment options, clear terms and conditions, and security features.

We’ve reviewed a few top-rated sportsbooks: Playfast, Svenplay, Betfinal, and Bruno. They boast valid licenses from top regulators and a variety of secure banking methods.

These online sports betting sites also have robust privacy policies and strong encryption. Additionally, they offer extensive sports coverage and rigorous security checks.

To spot safe betting sites, look for clear licensing information, straightforward terms, and positive user reviews. Ensure the bookmaker employs encryption for transactions and offers trusted payment methods like Bitcoin and iDEAL.

Finally, prioritize platforms that feature responsible gambling tools. This will help you stay in control while enjoying the thrill of betting. Safe betting starts with informed choices—make sure you choose wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions

A safe online betting site has a valid licence from a recognized body such as the MGA. It also uses encryption technology and safe payment methods to protect bettors’ data. Its terms and conditions are clear and its privacy policy is strong. Lastly, a safe betting site provides responsible gambling tools like cool-off periods, reality checks, personal limits and self-exclusion options.

We consider Playfast, Bruno and BetFinal the safest bookmakers because they are licensed, reputable, transparent in their operations and have several security features in place. There are several other safe betting sites.

Use unique, uncrackable passwords and activate two-factor authentication (2FA) if the site offers it. Don’t share your account login details with anyone. Don’t forget to only use secure payment methods, and never save your payment information on the browser. Most importantly, avoid logging into your account using public wifi of shared devices.

Yes, to confirm a betting site is safe and licensed, head to the licensees page on the official regulator’s website. Let’s say you want to confirm the licensing status of Svenplay. Head to the official MGA website and tap on the licensee hub at the bottom, then paste Svenplay’s URL.

In case you have some problem with an online bookie, you approach its customer support using either live chat, email, or over the phone. If you are unsatisfied with their response, you will be further assisted by filing a complaint with the regulator.