Scams are so common. From fraud to identity theft to spam websites, so many of us will experience a scam in our lifetime.
Statistics from Exploding Topics show more than 1/3 of US adults have experienced a scam or fallen victim to financial fraud in the last 12 months. Global estimates state roughly 608 million people fall victim to a scam annually, with scammers stealing more than a staggering $1 trillion in 2024.
Interestingly, 67% of US scams happen to women, but men lose more money on average.
Scams are a big issue that only seems to be getting worse as new technology becomes an enabler for more sophisticated gaming scams. But what defines a gaming scam? Read on to find out.
What Defines a Game as Being a ‘Scam’?
A “scam” game is essentially one that intentionally deceives players. Malicious games or platforms can trick users, for example, by making false promises or hiding important information, to steal money, virtual goods, or personal data.
The legal definition of an online game scam is “Online gambling fraud refers to any illicit or deceptive activity conducted within the realm of online betting and gaming platforms” (Comply Advantage).
Common scam signs include:
- Rigged gameplay (such as slot machines stacked heavily against the player)
- Bait-and-switch advertising
- Promising huge rewards that never materialize
For example, scam casino-style games may conceal their lack of a valid license or fairness audits. Players never win the advertised odds.
Regulators warn that illegal gambling sites, known as grey-market casinos, operate outside any oversight and make no guarantees of fairness or payouts.
What Are The Most Common Gaming Scams?
- Phishing and account theft
- Free currency and item scams
- Malware-disguised downloads
- Fake tournaments, sponsorships, or jobs
- Crypto and game investment scams
- Fake or rigged online casinos
More commonly, scammers use social engineering scams (befriending players in chat, manipulation, gaining false trust, etc.) to eventually extort money. They may also flood game forums or Discord with offers of free gift cards or game money that require you to log in. It’s the quickest way to hijack your account.
Who You Can Report a Gaming Scam to and How to Do It
Always report a scam through multiple channels if you think you’ve fallen victim to a gaming scam or have noticed one. To do that, you can:
Game or platform support
Report the issue to the game’s publisher or platform. Every legitimate platform should have an official support or contact us page on the game’s website. Or, they’ll have an in-app reporting tool on the game platform.
Law enforcement and regulators
In the US, you can file a complaint with federal agencies. The FTC’s complaint portal, ReportFraud.ftc, manages all types of online fraud, including gaming scams. There’s also the option of reporting to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). If the scam involves gambling, report unlicensed operators to your state’s gaming commission.
Note: offshore sites often fall outside US jurisdiction.
Consumer-protection organizations
The Better Business Bureau has a free BBB Scam Tracker. Using that, anyone can report suspected scams and see other people’s reports. Interestingly, BBB data states consumers avoided an estimated $43 million in scam losses in 2024 by using their Scam Tracker.
App store and platform abuse
Report the app if the scam came from a mobile or desktop app. If the app is on Google Play, you can open the Google App Store, press “More,” and select “Flag as inappropriate.”
For Apple, report suspicious apps or purchases at reportaproblem.apple.com.
Financial institutions
Immediately notify your bank or payment service if you entered credit card or bank information. Banks can often reverse charges or freeze accounts if you report fraud quickly.
How to Find Reputable Gaming Websites
There are so many reputable online gambling and gaming websites. You can always check out the blacklist before trying an online casino, so you know you’re having a safe experience. Your other options include:
- Check licensing and regulation: Knowing a gaming platform is regulated gives you some form of security. Global regulators include the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, or a US state gaming license. The US manages regulations differently, taking a varied state-by-state approach.
- Pick websites or games with transparency: Legitimate platforms will use secure HTTPS connections, valid SSL certificates, and accessible privacy policies. And read the terms and conditions carefully for hidden wagering requirements, withdrawal restrictions, or unusually large bonuses, which can also help you spot a scam.
- Read independent reviews
- Use official channels
- Verify the platform or game’s reputation and support: Gaming companies and platforms always address scam complaints. Check if the site or game is mentioned on official social media channels or in the news to find information.
Don’t be the next victim of a gaming or gambling scam. There are so many legitimate and great platforms and games following all the required rules and regulations. Whilst it’s true that online attacks and fraud are becoming more common, gaming should be a safe space for everyone.
