Gambling is nothing new. We’ve been doing it for a long time, and we will bet on anything. The next Pope, the Apocalypse, Ferret Bingo. But, we really like to bet on sports and sports details.
Online gaming – including sports betting – has expanded and so has the availability. There are all kinds of ads for sports betting apps and opportunities to (hopefully) win BIG. Incentives and freebies are offered to get people interested, and keep them logging in.
There is a lot of money flooding into sports betting (over $200 million in Nevada alone during the first half of 2021) and probably that much or more during the second half of 2021. Where there is big money, what do you find? Yep. Somebody waiting to rip you off.
In sports betting, there are “handicappers” or agents who study and wager on events. There are legitimate services for those who want to work with a handicapper. There are also people who will take your money and disappear. There will be no big payoff.
These ‘scamicappers’ (as the BBB calls them) pose as handicappers who are using inside information to place ‘sure’ bets. You’re guaranteed to win. They post on social media or send you an email promising sure wins. Pay a hefty fee and they will share their expertise. They probably offer a money-back guarantee or free picks if you make a losing bet.
Sounds safe? Sure it does! Do the scammers have any intention of giving your money back or giving you free picks? Nooo. Do they really have insider information? Nooo. Do they have YOUR money? You BETcha. Are they going to keep your money? You BETcha.
While it sounds like a safe bet, you’re really dealing with a scammer. These “scamicappers” had no intention of ever providing a refund or free picks. And their “insider information” is fake, too.
What can you do?
*Avoid sports handicappers altogether. The goal of the handicapper is to make money. They get paid regardless.
* If you’re going to look for a handicapper, look for an established, approved service. Do your homework.
*If it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t true. If the handicapper promises you will never lose a bet or they will refund your money if you do lose, stop and think. Does that make sense??
*Be wary of gambling-related pop-up ads, email spam, or text messages.
*Read the fine print on incentives.
*Even legitimate sports betting sites have the right to freeze your winnings. Be sure to check the terms of service.
*Check out the American Gaming Association’s information on state-specific gaming information.
*If you think you have a gambling problem (which will make you more vulnerable to a scam) contact the National Council on Problem Gambling for resources specific to your state or call 1 800 522-4700.
Stay safe!
