The regulator cautioned that illegal online gambling platforms are increasingly targeting South Africans through fake apps, phishing links, and social media ads with promises of unrealistic winnings, bonuses, and guaranteed profits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to acting CEO Lungile Dukwana<\/strong>, these fraudulent operators typically imitate licensed bookmakers, using similar names, logos, and branding to deceive users. Victims are often shown fake winnings or inflated account balances but are unable to withdraw funds unless they make additional payments, after which scammers frequently disappear or continue demanding more money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dukwana said: \u201cThese 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.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n The NGB reminded the public that licensed operators operate only via official websites, display valid provincial licences, do not guarantee winnings, and never request upfront fees to release payouts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Consumers were also advised to verify gambling operators before engaging, avoid suspicious links, and never share sensitive information such as banking passwords, identity documents, or one-time PINs with unverified platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The board stressed that unlawful gambling winnings from illegal operators are not protected, and victims have no legal recourse for recovering lost funds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Parents and guardians were urged to monitor online activity, particularly during high-profile sporting tournaments, to prevent underage gambling and exposure to aggressive gambling advertisements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The NGB also warned that problem gambling can show up in early warning signs such as chasing losses, borrowing money to continue gambling, hiding gambling habits, and ignoring work or personal responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To support harm reduction, the regulator encouraged responsible gambling habits such as setting strict budgets, treating gambling strictly as entertainment, avoiding gambling under emotional stress or the influence of substances, and taking regular breaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The NGB concluded by urging the public to remain vigilant, educate communities about gambling-related scams, and only engage with licensed operators regulated by provincial gambling authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/focusgn.com\/africa\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/MIT-Fake-News_0-300x200.jpg\")
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