The odds aren’t always in your favor. 

Online betting apps promise big wins, easy money, and the thrill of the game from the palm of your hand. But what they don’t tell you? Scammers are betting against you. Literally. 

From accounts mysteriously vanishing after a big win to apps that make withdrawing your money harder than breaking into Fort Knox, betting app scams can be unfortunately effective. But fret not! there are ways to spot these scams. 

Let’s break down five of the worst scams you need to watch out for in 2025 — before you place that next bet. 

1. Account blocked after winning

Ever had a hot streak, only to find your betting account suddenly “under review” or straight-up blocked? You’re not alone. Some shady betting apps let users win at first, but once they start withdrawing serious cash, the account gets locked — conveniently. Customer support? Nonexistent.  

How to avoid it: 

• Stick to well-known, licensed betting platforms. 

• Read online reviews — especially the bad ones. 

• If an app has vague policies about withdrawals, steer clear. 

2. Phishing attempts disguised as betting apps

Cybercriminals love to prey on eager gamblers. Fake betting apps and websites lure users in with flashy promotions, only to steal their personal info, credit card details, or even install malware. Click the wrong link, and you could be handing over your identity to a scammer. 

How to avoid it: 

• Download betting apps only from official app stores. 

• Double-check website URLs — scammers love sneaky typos (e.g., “BetFäir” instead of Betfair). 

• If an app asks for weird permissions (like access to your contacts or files), delete it immediately. 

3. Rigged odds that work against you

Some scammy betting apps manipulate the odds to keep you hooked. They’ll let you win a few small bets to build trust. But the moment you start placing bigger bets, the house always wins. Shocking.  

How to avoid it: 

• Check if the betting app is regulated by a gaming authority. 

• Be wary of apps that offer too-good-to-be-true bonuses. 

• Read user reviews — if people report shady changes in odds, avoid the app. 

4. Changing the spread at the last second

Imagine betting on your favorite team, feeling confident you’ve got it in the bag, only to check later and see the odds changed after you placed your bet. Some fraudulent apps manipulate the point spread at the last second, flipping winning bets into losing ones. 

How to avoid it: 

• Use reputable sportsbooks with a history of fair play. 

• Screenshot your bets (it won’t stop the scam, but it’s evidence if you need to report fraud). 

• If an app has multiple reports of odds shifting last-minute, steer clear. 

5. Making it nearly impossible to withdraw your winnings

Even some legit betting apps use this trick: They make it absurdly difficult to cash out, hoping you’ll just gamble away your winnings instead. Expect delays, endless verification requests, and vague “terms & conditions” that somehow always work against you. 

How to avoid it: 

• Read the withdrawal policy before you deposit any money. 

• If an app has tons of complaints about withdrawals, take that as a giant red flag. 

• Never leave large sums sitting in your betting account. 

Betting app scam red flags 

Keep an eye out for these warning signs: 

• Vague policies: If the terms & conditions are unclear or change frequently, it’s a bad sign. 

• Terrible user experience: Clunky design, broken links, and slow-loading pages? Probably a scam. 

• No clear withdrawal process:  If it’s a mystery how you get your money out, you probably never will. 

How to vet a betting app 

Before you place a bet, make sure the app is legit: 

• Check for a gambling licensee. If it’s not licensed, walk away. 

• Explore the app & website. Look for professional design and clear terms. 

• Read reviews. Not just the glowing ones—look for complaints about withdrawals or shady odds. 

• Be skeptical of “too good to be true” offers. Free money doesn’t exist. 

Bet against the scammers 

Betting can be fun, but losing your money to a scam isn’t. The best defense? Staying informed. Always vet your betting apps, trust your gut, and use security tools like Avast Secure Identity to keep your personal info safe. 

Got scammed? Report it to the Federal Trade Commission to help others avoid the same fate. 

FAQs about betting app scams 

Are all betting apps scams? 

No, but fraudulent betting apps are common. Stick to licensed, well-reviewed platforms to stay safe. 

How do scam online casinos work? 

They use rigged odds, fake promotions, and impossible withdrawal policies to steal users’ money. Always check for licensing and read user reviews. 

Is sports betting a scam? 

Not inherently, but scammy betting sites and rigged odds exist. Do your research before placing a bet.