The National Gambling Board (NGB) of South Africa has issued a statement reminding people to be careful when gambling during the 2026 World Cup.
This is due to the increased marketing of illegal online gambling platforms and fake betting apps during the event.
Parents are encouraged to monitor the online activity of minors during this period, particularly as so many campaigns market themselves to younger demographics.
Players are reminded to double-check that websites are legitimate and regulated before depositing money or submitting any user information.
The NGB runs a Verified Gambling Operators Web Portal, which is a resource that allows people to check the legality of a gambling website, along with additional information such as the correct URL.
Lungile Dukwana, NGB Acting CEO, 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.”
People are also encouraged to watch out for one another and look for signs of compulsive or harmful gambling behaviour, such as chasing losses, borrowing money or hiding gambling activity from friends.
Dukwana continued: “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.”
Only a few weeks ago, the NGB revealed that around ZAR 3.1m ($187,500) was forfeited to the state after it was found to come from illegal gambling sites.
The South Africa Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) provides free, confidential help for individuals and families affected by gambling harm and can be accessed through its free phone line, WhatsApp, or email
