Safe betting sites – UK’s most trusted betting sites December 2022
THE threat of online fraud has never been greater.
As such, bookies must work tirelessly in order to ensure that their customers remain safe at all times.
10 safest betting sites verified by The Sun
What Makes a Betting Site Safe?
Many people in the UK today place bets on sporting events online. However, it is important to only sign up with safe and trustworthy bookmakers. Below are the key features that we look out for when recommending safe betting sites:
Gambling license – Betting sites in the UK must hold a licence from the Gambling Commission in order to operate legally. As one of the most respected gambling authorities in the world, only fair, secure and trustworthy bookies make the grade. The Gambling Commission also ensures that bookies stay on top of their game in terms of safety.
Anti-fraud team – Leading bookies in the UK also have anti-fraud teams in place to look out for suspicious activity. The activity of fraudsters can often go unnoticed by punters. As a result, it is reassuring to know that members of staff are on hand day and night to protect bettors.
Encryption technology – State-of-the-art technology is now used by online bookies. Whether it be Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption or a firewall, such tools offer another layer of protection for those signing up. Such features make it more difficult for fraudsters to gain access to your personal details, including payment information.
Trusted payment methods – On that note, transfers on betting sites are processed on secure servers. This helps to ensure that funds move safely from your bank or e-wallet account to your betting account, and vice-versa. So, a bookie offering unfamiliar payment methods should be questioned.
Secure Login – Whether on desktop or mobile, it is important that the only individual who can gain access to their betting account is the person who created it in the first place. You will require your username/email address and password to log in. Meanwhile, many betting sites feature codes and touch/face ID login for mobile users.
The most trusted UK betting sites and their safety features
Along with sports coverage, odds, and promotions, security is another factor that separates the best betting sites from the rest. Below, we will take a closer look at our top-ranked bookies, focusing on how they keep their customers safe:
1. bet365
Not only does bet365 deliver when it comes to sports markets, odds, and live streaming, but the betting site is also completely secure. An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is in place to protect punters and their personal details. Meanwhile, 256-bit Digicert SSL encryption is also in place, along with more than one firewall. Having long held a license from the Gambling Commission, bet365 is rightly regarded as one of the most trustworthy bookies in the UK.
2. BetUK
While also being licensed in the UK, BetUK uses state-of-the-art encryption technology to safely store personal information. Meanwhile, the fact that the bookie is also regulated by the Revenue Commissioners in Ireland further demonstrates the reliability of BetUK. Along with 128-bit SSL encryption, password protection is also in place to protect any data uploaded.
3. Unibet
Personal details at Unibet are protected by 128-bit SSL encryption technology, with their certificate in this area being granted by Trustwave. Meanwhile, an Intrusion Detection System keeps an eye on all activity, including suspicious activity. With a dedicated fraud department too, Unibet has long been known as one of the safest betting sites in the UK. The Unibet privacy policy can be read at all times too, which is another good sign of their trustworthiness.
4. Betway
All payment methods accepted by Betway are safe to use. Meanwhile, the bookie is one of the few to have earned an ISO 27001 accreditation from eCOGRA. Betway is also linked to ESSA and the Remote Gambling Association (RGA). Betway Limited, a company based in Malta, controls all data, while 128-bit encryption technology from Rapid SSL protects all personal details.
5. 888sport
888sport was founded in 2008 and is licensed in both the UK and Gibraltar. The bookie is also associated with ESSA, while using 128-bit SSL technology to encrypt data. Meanwhile, only secure payment methods are available, with transfers being processed on a safe server. 888Sport also takes responsible gambling seriously, being linked with leading organisations, such as BeGambleAware.
6. BetVictor
BetVictor is another betting site that features an SSL certificate. This means that all data is encrypted as it moves to the bookie’s server. A dedicated anti-fraud team is also in place, while the bookie recently added an additional layer of security authentication to customer accounts. This means that accounts cannot be accessed, even if your password has been compromised.
How to avoid being scammed when betting
In order to remain safe when betting online, there are a number of steps that punters can take. The following are our top tips for bettors to consider:
- Choose a safe betting site – We have discussed the leading betting sites in the UK on this page. However, there are some sites that are not secure or trustworthy. So, before signing up, make sure that you have taken a close look at how the bookie protects players.
- Never share your details – Even if it is a family member or close friend, never share your account details. Doing so is a slippery slope and increases the chance of your login information getting into the wrong hands.
- Create a strong password – When registering an account, be sure to enter a memorable, yet strong password. This means that it should feature both numbers and letters, along with a punctuation mark or symbol. The best betting sites will often let you know just how strong your password is. Avoid using family names or your favourite sports team.
- Avoid public wifi – When on the move, there will be times when you wish to browse sportsbook markets and place bets. However, avoid using a public network in order to gain access. Hotspots are often seen as an easy way for fraudsters to gain access to the details of others.
- Don’t use debit cards – While debit card payments are processed safely the majority of the time, they are arguably the most likely to be compromised. In part, this is because you are more likely to have your card details stolen than your e-wallet account details. Meanwhile, you do not have to store money in your e-wallet account at all times.
What is KYC at betting sites and why does it matter?
Know Your Customer (KYC) is a process used by online bookmakers in order to verify the information of clients. It makes it possible for bookies to assess any potential risk, including preventing underage gambling and fraudulent activity. Betting sites are required to ensure that all activity is fair and crime-free.
Verifying the identity of customers is one of the most efficient methods of doing so. In order to complete the KYC process, punters must upload a valid form of identification, whether it be a passport or driver’s licence. An additional document may be required, such as a payslip or bank statement. Betting sites that do not feature KYC cannot claim to be completely safe.
Who regulates betting sites in the UK?
Any betting site that wished to operate legally in the UK must hold a licence from the Gambling Commission. Founded in 2007, the Gambling Commission is part of the government. With over 350 employees, the organisation regulates all gambling activity in the UK. The Gambling Commission is regarded as one of the most reputable authorities within the industry. As such, only bookmakers who can demonstrate that they are safe and fair will be granted a licence.
What to do if you’ve been scammed
Sometimes, even the most careful punters can be on the wrong end of a scam. So, what should you do if you believe you have been scammed? Firstly, be sure to report any suspicious activity. Do so by getting in touch with your chosen bookie, ideally via telephone. Provide as much information as possible.
Meanwhile, it is also important to get in touch with your bank if any money has been stolen. In some cases, it may even be worthwhile getting the police involved. The UK Gambling Commission also has a complaints procedure, where punters can make a report in confidence. Finally, end all contact with the scammer, while changing any passwords that may have been compromised.
Responsible Gambling
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chase their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org