Fraud and fakes: how not to get caught

Fraud and fakes: how not to get caught

The material refers to the section "What are online scratch cards?" and considers how the player can avoid scams, fake sites, and fake scratch games.

1) How online scratch card scams work

Scammers create fake sites or apps that mimic popular games, but:
  • Unlicensed and do not operate under a certified RNG.
  • Can show deliberately winning tickets to force the player to deposit money and then block withdrawal.
  • Use fake shares ("You won the prize! Please enter your card details").
  • Distribute malware under the guise of free scratch games.

2) The main signs of counterfeiting

1. The lack of information about the license or its number does not break through in the register of the regulator.
2. A fake domain is a similar name to a well-known brand, but with additional characters or errors.
3. Aggressive pop-ups with the promise of guaranteed winnings.
4. There are no transparent rules and no paytable.
5. Inadequate bonus conditions are mandatory deposits for "unlocking" an already "won" prize.
6. No contact or the only way to communicate is an unanswered form.

3) Typical cheating schemes

Fake winnings - the player is informed of a large prize, but in order to receive it they are required to pay a "tax" or "commission."
Impossibility of withdrawal - money can be deposited, but the conclusion is always rejected under any pretext (not enough rates, verification problems, technical errors).
Hidden subscriptions - regular payments are debited through "free" registration.
Fraudulent applications - collect personal data and use it to steal accounts.

4) How to check the integrity of the platform

License - find and check the number in the regulator register (UKGC, MGA, Curacao, etc.).
Reviews - read independent forums and aggregators, not just reviews on the site itself.
Payment systems - conscientious operators work with trusted providers (Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, etc.).
Encryption - the presence of HTTPS and a security certificate.
Partnerships - cooperation with well-known game studios and brands.

5) Safe game practice

1. Use only official sites and applications downloaded from trusted sources.
2. Do not follow suspicious links from e-mail or social networks.
3. Do not enter payment data on unfamiliar resources.
4. Check the site address before authorization.
5. Use unique passwords and two-factor authentication.

6) What to do if you are a victim

Stop transfers immediately and block your card or wallet.
Collect evidence: screenshots, correspondence, receipts.
Contact your bank to dispute transactions (chargeback).
Inform the regulator and law enforcement agencies.
Warn others - give feedback and talk about the cheating scheme.

Conclusion: protection against fraud in online scratchcards is based on attentiveness, license verification, choice of official platforms and refusal to enter data on suspicious resources. Fake sites often play on greed and haste - don't fall for promises of "guaranteed" winnings and always check the source.